🚗 DVSA Show Me Tell Me Questions & Answers – UK Driving Test

The DVSA “Show Me, Tell Me” questions are a key part of the UK driving test.

They test your knowledge of basic vehicle safety and maintenance before you even start driving. “Tell Me” questions are asked at the start of the test, and “Show Me” questions are asked while you are driving. Knowing the answers will boost your confidence and help you pass your test with ease.

Tell Me Questions (Before You Start Driving)

These questions ask you to explain how you would carry out a safety check. Here are all the current DVSA “Tell Me” questions with answers:

• Q: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. A: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. They should be tested as you move off, ensuring the car stops correctly.
• Q: Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures and how tyre pressures should be checked. A: In the manufacturer’s guide, using a reliable pressure gauge when the tyres are cold. Don’t forget the spare tyre.
• Q: Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted. A: The rigid part of the head restraint should be at least as high as the eyes or top of the ears, and close to the back of the head.
• Q: Tell me how you would check that the tyres have sufficient tread depth and are safe to use. A: No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm tread depth across central three-quarters of the breadth, around the entire circumference.
• Q: Tell me how you would check the headlights and tail lights are working. A: Operate the switch (turn on ignition if needed) and check lights, either by walking around the car or asking someone to help.
• Q: Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system. A: A warning light should illuminate on the dashboard if there is a fault.
• Q: Tell me how you would check the indicators are working. A: Operate the indicator switch (turn on ignition if necessary) and check all indicators work, either by using reflections or asking someone to help.
• Q: Tell me how you would check the brake lights are working. A: Operate the brake pedal and use reflections in windows or ask someone to help check.
• Q: Tell me how you would check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey. A: If steering becomes heavy, it may not be working correctly. Check by gentle pressure on the wheel while engine starts or turning the steering wheel after moving off.
• Q: Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use them. A: Operate the switch (turn on dipped headlights if necessary). Use when visibility is seriously reduced, usually below 100m.
• Q: Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you’d know the main beam is on. A: Operate the switch, check the main beam warning light on the dashboard.
• Q: Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient oil. A: Identify the dipstick, remove it, wipe it, reinsert, then check the level against the minimum and maximum markers.
• Q: Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant. A: Check the high and low markings on the header tank where fitted, and top up to the correct level with the correct type of coolant if necessary.
• Q: Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. A: Identify the reservoir, check the level against high and low markings, top up with correct type if necessary.

Show Me Questions (While Driving)

These are questions where you must demonstrate a vehicle safety task while driving:

• When it is safe, show how you wash and clean the rear windscreen.
• When it is safe, show how you wash and clean the front windscreen.
• When it is safe, show how you switch on your dipped headlights.
• When it is safe, show how you operate your front demister.
• When it is safe, show how you operate your rear demister.
• When it is safe, show how you operate the horn.
• When it is safe, show how you demist the windscreen using the air conditioning or heater.

Tips for Passing the Show & Tell Section

• Familiarise yourself with all “Tell Me” answers before the test.
• Practice “Show Me” demonstrations in a safe environment like a driving school car or private driveway.
• Stay calm and speak clearly — examiners are looking for correct knowledge, not speed.
• Use the vehicle manual if you’re unsure during practice.
• Remember, it’s only one part of the test — a confident start can set the tone for the rest of your driving exam.

Key Takeaways

• “Tell Me” questions are asked before driving; “Show Me” questions are demonstrated while driving.
• Know your vehicle and safety procedures inside out.
• Practicing at home or with instructors increases confidence and reduces nerves.
• Passing these questions is essential for a successful UK driving test.

With proper preparation, the DVSA Show & Tell questions are easy to master.