driving test
Show Me, Tell Me Questions: How to Get Them Right
The vehicle safety questions on the driving test, why they matter, and the easy way to learn them in your instructor’s car.
By Driving FirstPublished 20 October 2026Reviewed 20 October 2026
Every car driving test includes two vehicle safety questions: one "tell me" question before you drive, and one "show me" question while you are driving. Getting one or both wrong results in a single driving fault, so they won't fail you on their own, but they're easy marks to keep.
Tell me questions
You explain how you would carry out a check. Common examples include how you'd:
- check that the tyres have sufficient tread and are correctly inflated
- check the brakes are working before starting a journey
- check the engine oil, coolant or brake fluid levels
- check the headlights and tail lights are working
- know whether there is a problem with the anti-lock braking system
Show me questions
You demonstrate a control while driving, safely and without losing concentration. For example:
- washing and cleaning the front or rear windscreen
- switching on dipped headlights
- setting the rear demister
- operating the horn
- demisting the front windscreen
How to learn them
- Read the full current list on the official GOV.UK page.
- Learn them in the car you'll take your test in, because controls vary between models.
- For show me questions, practise until you can do them without looking for long. Safety comes first: if it isn't safe, wait.
We cover every show me, tell me question in the tuition car during your lessons, so you'll be ready on the day.