The DTC
Test Day8 min read

Show Me, Tell Me Questions

These two safety questions at the start of your test are easy marks if you prepare. One is asked before you set off; the other while you are driving.

The full guide

At the beginning of your practical test the examiner asks two vehicle safety questions. The first is a 'tell me' question asked before you move off — you explain how to perform a safety check. The second is a 'show me' question asked while you are driving — you demonstrate a safety task without losing control.

'Tell me' questions cover topics such as how to check the brakes before setting off, how to check tyre pressures and tread depth, how to test the headlights and tail lights, how to check the engine oil level, and how to top up the windscreen washer fluid. You answer verbally; you do not need to demonstrate physically.

'Show me' questions require you to operate controls while the car is moving. Examples include washing and wiping the windscreen, demisting the front and rear windows, opening and closing a side window, switching on dipped headlights, and activating the rear demister. You must carry out the action while maintaining full control of the vehicle.

A wrong answer to the 'tell me' question counts as one minor fault. An incorrect 'show me' demonstration also counts as one minor fault. However, if you lose control of the car while trying to perform a 'show me' task, that could be marked as a serious fault.

Common faults

  • Not knowing the answer to a 'tell me' question
  • Letting the car drift while operating controls for a 'show me' task
  • Looking down at the controls for too long instead of at the road
  • Not knowing where switches and controls are in the test vehicle
  • Forgetting to check mirrors before slowing for a 'show me' task
  • Panicking and pressing the wrong control

What the examiner looks for

  • You answer 'tell me' questions clearly and with the correct information
  • You carry out 'show me' tasks without losing control of the car
  • You keep your eyes primarily on the road while operating controls
  • You know where all the relevant controls are located
  • You maintain a safe speed and road position while demonstrating

Quick tips

  1. 1Learn all 14 'tell me' questions by heart with your instructor
  2. 2Memorise the location of every control in your test car before test day
  3. 3For 'show me' tasks, keep your left hand on the wheel and use your right hand for controls
  4. 4Perform the action calmly and smoothly while maintaining your line
  5. 5If you cannot find a control, say so — the examiner will assist, and it is only a minor fault

Common questions about show me, tell me questions

How many possible questions are there?
There are 14 'tell me' questions and 7 'show me' questions. The examiner selects one of each at random. Practise all of them with your instructor so you are ready for any combination.
What happens if I get an answer wrong?
An incorrect 'tell me' answer is one minor fault. A failed 'show me' demonstration is also one minor fault. Neither will fail your test on its own, but they add to your overall fault count.
Can I practise 'show me' tasks in any car?
Ideally practise in the exact car you will take your test in, because control locations vary. If that is not possible, at least familiarise yourself with where lights, wipers, and demisters are commonly positioned.
What are the most common 'tell me' questions?
Frequent ones include how to check tyre tread depth, how to check the brakes, how to check the oil level, how to check the lights, and how to check the coolant level. Your instructor will have the full official list.
Do I need to open the bonnet?
For most fluid-level questions you simply explain how you would check. You only need to open the bonnet if the examiner specifically asks you to demonstrate a physical check.
What if I press the wrong button during a 'show me' task?
Acknowledge the mistake calmly, locate the correct control, and carry on. Examiners understand that switch layouts differ between cars. One wrong press is usually only a minor fault if you recover safely.

Ready to put this into practice?

These guides are a great starting point, but nothing replaces working with a DVSA-approved instructor who can give you real-time feedback.

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Show Me, Tell Me Questions | The DTC