Complete DVSA “Tell Me” Questions & Answers
1. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. They should be tested as you set off. The vehicle should not pull to one side.
2. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
You can find the recommended tyre pressures in the manufacturer’s guide or handbook. Use a reliable pressure gauge and check tyres when they are cold. Remember to refit the valve caps after checking.
3. 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 is at least as high as the eyes or top of the ears and as close to the back of the head as comfortable.
4. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and that there are no cuts or bulges.
Tyres should have no cuts or bulges. They must have at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the tyre around the entire outer circumference.
5. Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You do not need to exit the vehicle.
Turn on the lights using the switch and explain that you would walk around the vehicle to check they are working properly.
6. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
The ABS warning light would stay illuminated if there was a fault with the anti-lock braking system.
7. Tell me how you’d check the direction indicators are working. You do not need to exit the vehicle.
Operate the indicators or hazard warning lights and explain that you would walk around the vehicle to check all indicators are working correctly.
8. Tell me how you’d check the brake lights are working on this car.
Press the brake pedal and ask someone to check the brake lights, or use reflections in windows, doors, or mirrors.
9. Tell me 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. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel while starting the engine should result in slight movement as the power assistance begins to operate.
10. Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use them.
Operate the control for the rear fog lights. They should only be used when visibility is seriously reduced, generally below 100 metres.
11. Tell me how you would switch your headlights from dipped beam to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on.
Operate the headlight control switch to main beam. A blue warning light on the dashboard will show that main beam is active.
12. Tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Open the bonnet, identify the dipstick, remove and wipe it clean, reinsert it, then check the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markers.
13. Tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.
Open the bonnet and identify the coolant reservoir. Check that the coolant level is between the minimum and maximum markers.
14. Tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Open the bonnet and identify the brake fluid reservoir. Ensure the brake fluid level is between the minimum and maximum markings.
Complete DVSA “Show Me” Questions & Answers
1. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
Operate the control to wash and wipe the rear windscreen. Turn on the ignition if necessary.
2. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
Operate the control to wash and wipe the front windscreen. Turn on the ignition if necessary.
3. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights?
Use the correct control to switch on the dipped headlights. Turn on the ignition if necessary.
4. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d set the rear demister?
Operate the rear demister button or control. Turn on the ignition if necessary.
5. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you would operate the horn?
Press the horn control safely while maintaining proper control of the vehicle.
6. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you would demist the front windscreen?
Use the heater controls, fan settings, temperature controls, and airflow direction to clear the front windscreen.
7. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d open and close the side window?
Use the electric window controls or manual window handle safely.
8. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you would switch on your rear fog lights?
Operate the rear fog light control switch. Turn on the ignition or headlights if required.
9. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you would switch your headlights from dipped beam to main beam?
Use the headlight control or stalk to switch from dipped beam to main beam. A blue dashboard light will normally appear.
10. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d set the front demister?
Use the heater, fan speed, and airflow controls to direct warm air onto the front windscreen.
11. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d check the handbrake is secure on this car?
Apply the handbrake firmly and explain that the vehicle should remain secure without rolling.
12. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d operate the hazard warning lights?
Press the hazard warning light button to activate all indicators simultaneously.
13. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear?
Apply the parking brake. It should secure the vehicle without needing excessive force or travel.