Learning Resources
Many learners focus so intensely on the major elements of the practical driving test—like independent driving or tackling manoeuvres—that they overlook another crucial section: the “show me, tell me” questions.
Although getting these questions wrong won’t cause you to fail the test on its own, understanding them properly is still essential. Your instructor at Drive Professional Driving School will cover them with you, but becoming familiar with them early on can give you a huge confidence boost when the test begins.
What are the “show me, tell me” questions?
These questions are designed to confirm that you understand the basic safety features and functions of your vehicle. The good news? You don’t need expert mechanical knowledge—just a simple awareness of how your car works.
How do “show me” and “tell me” differ?
- A “tell me” question requires you to describe how you’d carry out a safety check. This happens before the car starts moving.
- A “show me” question asks you to demonstrate a safety action while you’re driving.
- You’ll be asked one of each during the test.
Let’s go through them, starting with the “show me” questions…
“Show me” Questions
When it’s safe, can you show me how you clean the rear windscreen?
Most cars use the right-hand stalk to activate the rear wash and wipe. Since cars differ, make sure you’ve checked where this control is during your lessons.
When it’s safe, can you show me how you clean the front windscreen?
Typically, pulling or pushing the wiper stalk sprays screenwash, and the wipers do the rest. You’ve likely already done this during lessons—especially on a rainy day!
When it’s safe, can you show me how to switch on your dipped headlights?
You’ll usually find the light controls on a dial or stalk. Be sure you know which setting is for dipped headlights and not full beam.
When it’s safe, can you show me how to turn on the rear demister?
Look to the centre console. The rear demister usually has a dedicated button—press it, and ensure the fan is set appropriately.
When it’s safe, can you show me how you’d sound the horn?
This one’s simple—press the centre of the steering wheel to give a short beep, making sure it’s safe to do so.
When it’s safe, can you show me how you’d demist the front windscreen?
Use the heater controls on the console. The front demist usually directs warm air toward the windscreen. Know which dial controls which vent.
When it’s safe, can you show me how to open and close the side window?
Operate the window switch on the door panel. As always, your priority is ensuring the road conditions allow you to act safely.
“Tell me” Questions
You’ll only need to explain these—you won’t have to physically carry them out.
How would you check that the brakes are working before starting a journey?
You’d gently apply the brakes as you set off. They shouldn’t feel spongy, soft, or unresponsive, and the car shouldn’t pull to one side.
Where would you find the recommended tyre pressures, and how would you check them?
You’d look in the car’s handbook for the correct pressures. Use a reliable gauge to check them, only test tyres when they’re cold, replace valve caps afterwards, and ensure there’s a spare tyre available.
How do you adjust the head restraint for maximum protection in a collision?
The rigid part of the restraint should sit at least as high as your eyes or the top of your ears, and should be positioned close to the back of your head.
How would you check tyres for adequate tread and road safety?
Make sure there are no cuts or bulges, and check that the tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
How would you check that the headlights and taillights are working?
You’d turn on the relevant switch and walk around the vehicle to check the lights—though for this question, you only need to explain what you’d do.
How would you know if your anti-lock braking system has a fault?
An ABS warning light will illuminate on the dashboard if something isn’t working correctly.
How would you check that the direction indicators are working?
Activate the indicators and walk around the car to confirm they’re flashing correctly—again, only describe this process.
How would you check the brake lights are functioning?
Press the brake pedal and use reflections behind you to check the lights, or ask someone to help you verify.
How would you check that power-assisted steering is working before driving?
If steering feels unusually heavy, it might indicate a problem. Light pressure on the wheel while starting the engine should cause a slight movement, showing assistance is active. Turning the wheel shortly after moving off is another way to check.
How would you switch on the rear fog lights, and when should they be used?
Turn on the fog light switch (you may need dipped headlights). Check the warning light appears, and explain that it’s used when visibility drops severely, usually below 100 metres.
How do you switch from dipped to main beam, and how do you know it’s on?
Operate the main beam control, normally on the indicator stalk. A blue warning icon on the dashboard confirms the beam is active.
Open the bonnet—how do you check the engine has enough oil?
Locate the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, then check the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markers.
Open the bonnet—how do you check the engine has enough coolant?
Find the coolant tank and make sure the fluid level sits between the high and low marks. Top up if required.
Open the bonnet—how do you check you have a safe level of brake fluid?
Locate the brake fluid reservoir and check the level against the minimum and maximum indicators.
And that’s everything! Once you spend some time going through these, they’ll soon feel natural. The team at Drive Professional Driving School will help you practice them until you’re fully confident. As you progress through your lessons, remember this is just one part of the journey—there’s plenty more to learn before you’re fully test-ready.