Driving Test Questions: A Complete Guide for Learners

 Taking your driving test is a big step towards independence, but it can also feel nerve-wracking. Along with showing your driving skills, the examiner will ask you a few driving test questions to make sure you understand the basics of car safety and maintenance.

These questions are simple and straightforward, but preparing for them in advance will give you more confidence on test day.

What Are Driving Test Questions?

Driving test questions are part of the UK practical driving exam. They check whether you know how to carry out basic safety checks and understand the rules of the road. The examiner usually asks two questions: one before the test begins and another while you are driving.

The aim is not to catch you out but to confirm that you are capable of keeping your car safe and roadworthy.

The Two Question Types

Show Me Questions

These require you to physically demonstrate something in the car. They are asked while you’re driving. For example:

  • “Show me how you would use the rear demister.”
  • “Show me how you would wash and clean the windscreen.”
  • “Show me how you would check that your horn is working.”

Tell Me Questions

These are asked at the start of the test, before you set off. You only need to explain how you would carry out the check. Examples include:

  • “Tell me how you would check the brakes are working before a journey.”
  • “Tell me how you would make sure your tyres are safe for the road.”
  • “Tell me how you would test that the indicators are working.”

Together, these are commonly known as the “Show Me, Tell Me” questions.

Examples of Common Driving Test Questions

Here are some popular questions you should practise with your instructor:

  • How do you test that the brakes are working properly?
  • Apply the brakes as you set off. The car should not pull to one side, and the pedal should not feel slack.
  • How do you check tyre tread depth?
  • The tread must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the full circumference.
  • How would you check that the headlights and tail lights are working?
  • Turn them on and then walk around the vehicle to make sure they’re lit.
  • How do you know if the ABS has a fault?
  • A warning light will appear on the dashboard.
  • How do you set the head restraint correctly?
  • The rigid part should be in line with the top of your ears and close to the back of your head.

Tips for Answering Driving Test Questions

  • Learn them in advance: There is a set list of questions available online and from your instructor.
  • Practise during lessons: Most instructors cover these regularly, so use that time to ask questions.
  • Don’t panic if unsure: Take a moment to think. The examiner will not fail you just for hesitation.
  • Stay confident: Clear and simple answers are better than long, uncertain ones.

Why They Matter

While many learners focus only on the driving part of the exam, the driving test questions are an important section. They show that you understand how to keep your car safe and road legal.

Getting one wrong will not mean an automatic fail, but both wrong answers are recorded as a driving fault. Too many faults can affect the outcome, so it’s worth preparing properly.

Conclusion

Knowing the driving test questions and practising them before your exam can make the day feel less stressful. By preparing for the Show Me and Tell Me section, you’ll show the examiner that you are ready to drive responsibly and safely.

Take time with your instructor to rehearse the questions, review the Highway Code, and familiarise yourself with your car’s controls. With the right preparation, you’ll boost your confidence and increase your chances of passing your test on the first try.

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