The Ultimate Guide to Passing Show Me Tell Me Questions in Your Driving Test
When it comes to driving tests, there are many different aspects that you need to prepare for. One important part of the practical test is the show me tell me questions. These questions are designed to assess your knowledge of car maintenance and safety checks. While they may seem tricky at first, understanding these questions is crucial to passing your driving test. In this article, we will break down what show me questions are, why they are important, and how you can prepare for them.
What Are Show Me Tell Me Questions?
The show me questions are a set of questions asked by the examiner during your practical driving test. These questions are intended to assess your understanding of vehicle maintenance and safety procedures. The “tell me” questions require you to explain how to carry out a particular check, while the show me questions ask you to physically demonstrate the procedure.
For example, a tell me question might ask, Tell me how you would check the oil level in the car.” You will need to explain the steps involved. A show me” question might be, Show me how you would check that the indicators are working. In this case, you would demonstrate how to turn on the car’s indicators.
Why Are Show Me Tell Me Questions Important?
Show me tell me questions are a key part of the driving test because they test your ability to manage basic vehicle maintenance. It’s important to know how to properly check different systems in your car to ensure its safety and reliability. This not only helps prevent accidents but also keeps the car running smoothly. A well-maintained car is much safer on the road.
Common Show Me Tell Me Questions and How to Answer Them
Question | How to Answer |
---|---|
Tell me how you would check the oil level. | Open the bonnet, locate the dipstick, remove it, wipe it clean, dip it back in, and then remove it to check the level. Add oil if necessary. |
Show me how you would check the headlights. | Turn on the car and activate the headlights. Walk around the car to check that both the headlights and taillights are working properly. |
Tell me how you would check the brake fluid level. | Locate the brake fluid reservoir, check the fluid level, and ensure it is between the minimum and maximum marks. |
Show me how you would check the tire pressure. | Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure of each tire. Compare the reading with the recommended pressure, which can be found in the owner’s manual. |
Tell me how you would check that the windscreen washer is working. | Check that the windscreen washers are spraying water properly and that the wipers are functioning correctly. |
Preparing for Show Me Tell Me Questions

The best way to prepare for the show me questions is to practice. Here are some steps you can follow:
1. Learn the Key Checks
First, familiarize yourself with the main systems of your car that you will need to check, such as oil, brakes, and lights. Study your car’s manual and look for instructions on how to perform basic checks. This will give you the knowledge you need to answer the show me questions.
2. Practice with a Friend or Instructor
Once you know what you need to do, practice demonstrating these checks with a friend, family member, or driving instructor. For example, if the question is Show me how you would check the tire pressure, physically check the tires and explain what you’re doing. It helps you feel confident during the real test.
3. Use Online Resources
There are many resources available online that can help you prepare. Many websites provide videos that demonstrate how to carry out the checks. Watching these videos can be a helpful way to see the process in action and better understand what is expected during the driving test.
4. Know Your Vehicle
Each car is different, so it’s important to understand how to check the systems in the car you’ll be using for the test. If possible, practice on the same car you’ll drive during your test, as this will make the experience feel more natural.
5. Stay Calm and Confident
When it comes time for the test, stay calm and confident. You’ve already practiced the necessary steps, so there’s no need to worry. If you make a mistake, don’t panic. Stay calm, and you can easily correct it.
Conclusion
Show me tell me questions are an important part of the practical driving test. While they may seem daunting at first, with the right preparation, you can easily pass this section of the test. The key is to practice, stay calm, and ensure you understand how to check the most important systems of your vehicle. By doing so, you’ll show the examiner that you are ready to be a safe, responsible driver on the road.