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Show Me Tell Me Questions: The Complete Guide

You'll be asked two vehicle safety questions at the start of your test. Here's every question and answer you need to know.

8 min read

At the start of your driving test, the examiner will ask you two vehicle safety questions — one "tell me" (answered before you get in the car) and one "show me" (demonstrated while driving). Getting these wrong counts as one minor fault. Getting them both wrong is still only one minor. But knowing them confidently sets the right tone for your test.

The Full Guide

Tell Me questions are asked outside the car before the test starts. You answer verbally. Examples: "Tell me how you'd check the engine oil level." (Answer: Use the dipstick — oil should be between min and max marks, check cold on level ground.) "Tell me how you'd check the tyres are safe to drive on." (Answer: Check tread depth is at least 1.6mm, no cuts, bulges, or damage, correct pressure using a gauge.)

Common Faults

  • Vague answers that don't mention the specific location or markers
  • Mixing up oil dipstick with coolant reservoir
  • Forgetting to mention safety warnings (gloves, cold engine)
  • Hesitating too long — suggests you're unsure

What the Examiner Looks For

  • Clear, confident answer that covers the key point
  • Correct identification of the component
  • Mention of safety considerations where relevant
  • Calm demonstration without distraction from driving (for Show Me)

Quick Tips

  • 1Both questions together = maximum one minor fault
  • 2Study the official DVSA list — the questions are always from it
  • 3Practise saying answers aloud — verbal recall is different from reading
  • 4Ask your instructor to quiz you on random questions before each lesson

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