"Show Me, Tell Me" Questions

The examiner will ask you one 'show me' question and one 'tell me' question during your practical driving test. Here are the most common questions for an automatic car.

View Official DVSA Guide

"Tell Me" Questions (Before you start driving)

1. Tell me how you'd check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

2. Tell me where you'd find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

Manufacturer's guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.

3. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.

The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable.

"Show Me" Questions (While you are driving)

1. When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?

Demonstrate operating the correct control to wash and wipe the rear windscreen while maintaining safe control of the vehicle.

2. When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?

Demonstrate operating the correct control to wash and wipe the front windscreen.

3. When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd switch on your dipped headlights?

Operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then show the examiner that they are on.