At the start of the driving test you will be asked two questions; one will be a 'show me' where you must be able to demonstrate how you would carry out the required check, for example that the horn was working by pressing it.

The other question will be a 'tell me' where you need only give a verbal explanation of how you would carry out the check. There are nineteen possible questions listed below with an explanation of how to perform the check.

Getting one or both questions wrong will result in driving fault(minor).

1. 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 then explain you would remove and clean dipstick, reinsert dipstick then remove to check oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

   

    

2. 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 reservoir, check level against minimum /maximum markings.

   

    

3. 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 minimum /maximum level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

   

    

4. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
   Identify reservoir and check it is full. There are not usually any level markings.

   

5. 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.
6. Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear.
   Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.
7. Show me how you would check that the horn is working.
   Check is carried out by using control.
8. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
   Turn ignition on (DO NOT START THE CAR) Apply the indicators and walk around car to check function of all indicators including those at he side.
9. 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. As this is now a show me question, the examiner may check the brake lights for you. You may need to switch the ignition on, however you should not start the engine.
10. Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
    Operate the control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn on ignition if necessary).
11. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, include both front and rear screens.
    Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windows. Engine does not have to be started for demonstration.
    
12. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use them.
    Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary but do not start the car. Check warning light is on and explain you would use them when visibility is reduced to less than 100 metres (328ft). Remember to switch them off if not required.
    
13. Show me how you would 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 on), check main beam warning light is on.
14. 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.
15. Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working.
    Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary) and check they are working.
    
16. Tell me how you would 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 head restraints might not be adjustable.
    
17. Tell me how you know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.
    Warning light on the dashboard should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.
18. 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.
19. 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.