RICHMOND RDS BLOG

UPDATED FOR 2024
Mastering the "Show Me, Tell Me" Driving Test Questions

As part of the practical driving test, the examiner will ask you two vehicle safety question categories known as the "show me" and "tell me" questions. While seemingly simple, these questions assess crucial knowledge about your car that is essential for safe driving.

The "show me" questions require you to physically demonstrate how to carry out a safety task related to your vehicle's controls. For example, the examiner may ask you to "show me how you would set the demisters" or "show me how you would switch on the rear fog light."

For the "tell me" questions, you'll need to explain to the examiner the procedures or reasons for performing certain safety-related vehicle checks. Common examples include "tell me how you would check that the headlights and taillights are working" or "tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system."

While the questions cover basic car maintenance and safety points, they are easy to stumble on if you don't prepare. Examiners want to see that you have a sound understanding of how to properly operate your vehicle's systems and conduct routine checks.

Here are some tips for passing this part of the test:

- Study the official DVSA revision materials which list all the potential "show me, tell me" questions
- Ask your driving instructor to go over the questions with you during lessons
- Practice the physical demonstrations and explanations out loud
- Check your vehicle's manual if unsure about the operation of any controls or components

Don't let these simple questions throw you off on test day. With proper preparation, you'll be able to confidently demonstrate your vehicle safety knowledge and move one step closer to passing the driving test.

At Driving Lessons Richmond, we ensure our students have mastered all the potential "show me, tell me" questions before their test. Our instructors' guidance, combined with your dedication, will have you feeling thoroughly prepared for every portion of the driving exam.

This is the latest DVSA show me tell me video that clearly explains the process.

Not properly demonstrating the correct procedure or operation of vehicle controls/systems The "show me" questions require physically demonstrating how to carry out safety-related tasks like operating demisters, lights, etc. If the candidate does not know the proper steps or cannot locate/operate the controls, they may fail this part of the test.

• Lack of familiarity with their specific vehicle

The "show me" questions relate to the basic controls and components of the car being used for the test. Not being fully familiar with the location and operation of things like fog lights, windshield wipers, etc. in that particular vehicle could lead to mistakes.

• Nerves/anxiety affecting demonstration

Test day jitters can cause people to become flustered and make simple errors, like forgetting the steps or providing an incomplete demonstration, when asked to physically "show" the examiner something.

• Poor vehicle maintenance knowledge

Some "show me" questions may involve demonstrating basic vehicle safety checks. Not understanding the reasons behind these checks or how to properly conduct them could result in an inadequate or incorrect demonstration.While the "show me" questions seem straightforward, they require hands-on vehicle familiarity and calm execution.

Preperation is Key
Proper preparation by reviewing these questions with an instructor and practicing the demonstrations can help prevent simple mistakes. Staying relaxed and taking your time is also key when physically demonstrating your knowledge to the examiner on test day.

It is also worth noting at this point. that you must have also completed the multiple choice questions which are part of the Theory Test and include the Hazard perception test prior to taking your practical driving test.

You CANNOT sit your practical driving test without having passed your Theory Test prior.
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​As responsible motorists, it's crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest changes to the UK's Highway Code. On 29 January 2022, some significant revisions came into effect aimed at improving road safety for vulnerable users like pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders.

These amendments follow a public consultation that received over 20,000 responses, with most people in favour of the proposed changes[6]. Let's take a look at 8 of the most important updates:

1. Hierarchy of Road Users
Three new rules establish a 'hierarchy of road users' that places those most at risk in the event of a collision at the top. The hierarchy in order is:
1. Pedestrians 
2. Cyclists
3. Horse riders
4. Motorcyclists
5. Cars/taxis
6. Vans/minibuses
7. Large passenger/heavy goods vehicles

Drivers of larger vehicles must now give greater priority and care to more vulnerable road users.
2. Crossing Rules for Pedestrians 
At a junction, drivers should give way to pedestrians waiting to cross. Pedestrians also have priority when on a zebra crossing or parallel crossing.
3. Cyclist Positioning and Passing
Cyclists can ride in the centre of their lane on quieter roads, in better positions to be seen. Drivers should leave at least 1.5 metres when passing a cyclist at speeds under 30mph.
4. Shared Use Areas
Pedestrians have priority on shared use paths and routes. Cyclists should respect this and travel at a speed suitable for the conditions.
5. Overtaking Horse Riders
Drivers should pass horse riders at no more than 10mph and allow at least 2 metres of space. They should also be prepared to stop if the horse appears startled.
6. Parking and Charging Cables
It is now illegal to park a vehicle in a way that blocks access for pedestrians on the pavement. Charging cables for electric vehicles should also not create trip hazards.
7. Roundabout Rules
More guidance has been added on giving priority to cyclists and horse riders when traveling around roundabouts.
8. Dutch Reach
Drivers are now encouraged to use the 'Dutch Reach' technique when opening their door with the hand furthest from the door. This forces you to turn your body, helping you check over your shoulder for passing traffic.

These updates reinforce the need for all road users to be aware of their surroundings and show extra consideration for vulnerable groups. At Driving Lessons Richmond, we ensure our students not only know these new rules but also develop the observational skills and safe driving habits to put them into practice.

Stay up to date by reading the full revised Highway Code online or ordering the latest printed version. Many of the rules are legal requirements, so understanding them is essential for responsible motoring.

DVSA Latest News. Follow our Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency Updates for 2022 here on driving schools in Richmond,
Get the latest news and updates from the DVSA.
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