The Driving Standards Agency introduced the "Show me, tell me" safety questions for
all categories of tests in September 2003. A commitment to review the questions was
given at that time, and from 1st July 2008 some additional questions will be included
to more accurately reflect the need for candidates to have the skills and knowledge
to ensure they and their vehicles are safe to be on the road. Additional questions
will cover the use of wipers, demisters, brake lights, fog lights, head restraints,
ABS warning lights and the correct operation of relevant controls and switches.
The
number of questions to be asked will remain unaltered. Set combinations of questions
will be retained for Category B car tests, these combinations have been updated.
For all other categories examiners will choose a selection of two or five questions
(dependant on the type of test) from the Question Bank. Questions will suit the vehicle
presented for test and the location the test is being delivered from. Answers to
the questions can be found in the relevant DSA Essential Skills publication. There
is no change to the level of assessment.
The questions are as follows:
|
Combination |
Questi on No. |
Show / Tell |
Question |
Answer |
|
1 |
B08 |
Show |
Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working. |
Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine) |
|
1 |
B10 |
Tell |
Tell me how you would 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. Vehicle should not pull to one side. |
|
2 |
B05 |
Tell |
Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level. |
Identify windscreen washer reservoir and explain how to check the level by looking for the minimum and maximum markings. |
|
2 |
B09 |
Show |
Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine) |
Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine) |
|
3 |
B02 |
Show |
Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey. |
If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning. |
|
3 |
B12 |
Tell |
Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. |
Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps. |
|
4 |
B04 |
Show |
Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle |
Apply footbrake firmly. Demonstrate by applying parking brake (handbrake) so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel. |
|
4 |
B05 |
Tell |
Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level. |
Identify the brake fluid reservoir and explain how to check the level by looking for the minimum and maximum markings. |
|
5 |
B01 |
Show |
Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil. |
Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, expllain how to check the oil level against the min/max markers, by wiping the dipstick with a cloth and replacing it, before pulling it out again. Car should be on a level surface. |
|
5 |
B12 |
Tell |
Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. |
Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps. |
|
6 |
B03 |
Show |
Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level. |
Identify high/low level markings on the header/coolant tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level. Engine should be cool whilst checking to avoid serious burns. |
|
6 |
B18 |
Tell |
Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash |
The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable |
|
7 |
B07 |
Show |
Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. |
Identify the brake fluid reservoir, check the level by looking for the minimum and maximum markings. |
|
7 |
B13 |
Tell |
Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road. |
No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. |
|
8 |
B06 |
Show |
Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only). |
Check is carried out by using the horn control (turn on ignition if necessary). |
|
8 |
B13 |
Tell |
Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road. |
No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. |
|
9 |
B10 |
Tell |
Tell me how you would 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. Vehicle should not pull to one side. |
|
9 |
B14 |
Show |
Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers |
Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary. |
|
10 |
B11 |
Tell |
Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle) |
Explanation: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. (As this is a "Tell Me" question, there is no need to physically check the lights.) |
|
10 |
B15 |
Show |
Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens |
Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration |
|
11 |
B16 |
Show |
Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle) |
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use. |
|
11 |
B19 |
Tell |
Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system |
Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system |
|
12 |
B09 |
Show |
Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine) |
Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine) |
|
12 |
B11 |
Tell |
Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle) |
Explanation: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. (As this is a "Tell Me" question, there is no need to physically check the lights.) |
|
13 |
B17 |
Show |
Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car |
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light |
|
13 |
B19 |
Tell |
Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system |
Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system |
The ‘Show Me, Tell Me’ questions, so called because it consists of a ‘Show Me’ question
where you will show the examiner a relevant safety check on the vehicle, and a ‘Tell
Me’ question where you will simply be asked to explain how you would carry out a
safety check. The questions are asked at the start of the driving test, and may require
you to open the vehicle bonnet (covering the engine bay). Vehicles have a two-
See under the bonnet guide for:
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