Show Me, Tell Me
Interactive flashcards covering all 10 DVSA practical test questions. Tap any card to reveal the answer — master these before your test and walk in with confidence.
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. The vehicle should not pull to one side.
Tell me how you'd check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe.
No cuts or bulges. 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
Tell me how you'd check the headlights and tail lights are working.
Turn on the ignition, then operate the switch for the lights. Walk around the vehicle to check both front and rear lights are functioning.
Tell me where you'd find the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
In the manufacturer's guide or on a sticker inside the driver's door frame. Use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold. Don't forget the spare tyre. Refit valve caps.
Show me how you'd check that the direction indicators are working.
Turn on the hazard warning lights. Walk around the vehicle to check that all six indicators (front, rear, and side repeaters) are flashing.
Show me how you'd check the brake lights are working on this car.
Press the brake pedal. Make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help check from behind the vehicle.
Show me how you'd check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
With the engine running, turn the steering wheel slightly left and right. It should feel light and responsive with no unusual noises. Alternatively, as you move off, the steering should feel light and not heavy.
Tell me how you'd check the engine has sufficient oil.
Open the bonnet, identify the dipstick. With the engine off and cool, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert fully, then pull it out again. The oil level should be between the min and max marks.
Tell me how you'd check the engine coolant level.
Open the bonnet, identify the coolant reservoir. The level should be between the min and max lines on the side of the tank. Never remove the cap when the engine is hot — risk of scalding.
Show me how you'd clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
Turn on the ignition. Operate the control stalk to spray water onto the windscreen and activate the wipers. Most vehicles use pulling the right-hand stalk towards you.
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Pro tip: Examiners ask one 'Show Me' question during the driving part and one 'Tell Me' question at the start. You can't fail for getting one wrong, but it counts as a driving fault — so learn them all!