The show me tell me questions can feel like an extra hurdle when you are already thinking about manoeuvres, observations and test-day nerves. The good news is that this part of the driving test is very manageable. It is not designed to catch you out. It gives you an opportunity to show that you understand the basic safety checks every responsible driver should make.
A clear answer, a sensible demonstration and a calm approach can make a strong first impression. More importantly, learning these checks properly helps you look after the car you are driving, whether you have just started lessons or are preparing for your test in Wicklow.
What are show me tell me questions?
These questions cover basic vehicle safety, controls and maintenance. A tell me question asks you to explain how you would check something. A show me question asks you to point out a control or demonstrate a simple check in the vehicle.
You may be asked about tyres, lights, oil, coolant, brakes, windscreen washers, steering or dashboard warning lights. The examiner is looking for a safe and practical response, not a complicated mechanical explanation.
For example, you may be asked how you would check that your tyres are safe and legal. A good answer would mention checking for cuts, bulges or damage, ensuring the tread is above the legal minimum, and keeping the tyre pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended level. You do not need to recite a speech word for word. You do need to show that you understand what to look for and why it matters.
The exact questions and format can vary, so it is always wise to revise the current RSA guidance and practise in the same type of car you will use for your test where possible.
Why these questions matter beyond the test
It is tempting to treat this section as something to memorise for one morning and forget once the test is over. In reality, these checks are part of safe everyday driving.
A low tyre pressure can affect grip, braking and fuel use. A faulty light makes it harder for other road users to see you. A warning light on the dashboard may indicate that the car needs attention before it is safe to continue. Understanding the basics means you are less likely to ignore a problem simply because you are unsure what it means.
You are not expected to become a mechanic. A good driver knows the difference between a straightforward check they can carry out safely and an issue that needs professional advice. If you discover a serious fault, such as a warning light that remains on, damaged tyres or a brake problem, the right decision is not to drive until it has been checked.
Common show me tell me questions to practise
Rather than trying to learn dozens of answers in isolation, group the questions by the part of the vehicle they relate to. This makes them easier to remember and helps the information make sense.
Tyres and wheels
Tyre questions are common because tyres are the only part of the car in direct contact with the road. Be ready to explain how you would inspect them for visible damage, check tread depth and check pressure.
When discussing pressure, say that you would use a reliable gauge and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation. Pressure should normally be checked when tyres are cold. Do not guess the correct number for a car unless you have checked its handbook, door sticker or other manufacturer information.
You may also be asked about wheel security. It is enough to explain that you would look for obvious concerns and seek help if you suspected loose wheel nuts or wheel damage. Do not attempt work you are not trained or equipped to do.
Lights and indicators
You should know where to operate dipped headlights, full beam, hazard warning lights, fog lights, indicators and rear demister if fitted. You may be asked how you would check that brake lights are working.
A practical answer is that you would ask someone to stand behind the car while you press the brake pedal, or reverse close to a reflective surface where it is safe to do so and look for the reflection. You can also explain that all lights should be clean and working correctly before a journey.
Remember that fog lights are for seriously reduced visibility, not simply rain or darkness. Using them when they are not needed can dazzle other drivers.
Under-bonnet checks
Some learners feel most nervous about the bonnet because they worry about identifying the wrong item. This is exactly why practising with the actual training car is useful.
Know how to open and secure the bonnet safely. Identify where the engine oil is checked, where the coolant level is checked and where the windscreen washer fluid is topped up. You should also understand that engine oil is checked using the dipstick, with the car on level ground and the engine switched off. The level should sit between the minimum and maximum marks.
For coolant, explain that you would check the level against the markings on the reservoir when the engine is cold. Never open a hot cooling system. Hot coolant can be under pressure and can cause serious injury.
Brake fluid is another area worth recognising. You may be asked where the reservoir is and how you would check the level. If fluid levels repeatedly fall, this may indicate a fault and should be investigated.
Brakes, steering and warning lights
You may be asked how you would know if there was a problem with the brakes. A sensible answer could include the car pulling to one side when braking, unusual noises, a soft or spongy brake pedal, a pedal travelling unusually far, or a brake warning light appearing.
For steering, you should understand that unusually heavy steering, excessive free play or unusual noises could point to a problem. The steering wheel should feel controlled and responsive, not loose.
Dashboard lights can seem confusing at first, but focus on the principle. Red warning lights generally require immediate attention, while amber lights often indicate that something needs checking soon. Never ignore a warning light because the car still appears to drive normally. If you are unsure, stop safely and check the vehicle handbook or get professional advice.
Windscreen, washers and demisters
Safe vision is essential. Be ready to show the windscreen wipers and washers, and to identify the front and rear demister controls. Before moving off, make sure the windscreen, mirrors and lights are clear of mist, dirt, ice or snow.
You should also know that washer fluid needs to be kept topped up. Water alone may freeze in cold weather and may not clean the screen properly. Use suitable screen wash as recommended for the conditions.
How to answer confidently on the day
The best answers are calm, direct and based on what you would actually do. Listen fully to the question before responding. If the examiner asks you to show a control, take a moment to locate it rather than rushing.
Avoid adding details you are not sure about. If you know that tyre tread must be legal but cannot confidently quote a measurement, explain the proper checking method and say you would ensure it meets the legal requirement. Accuracy matters more than trying to sound overly technical.
If you do not hear or understand a question, ask for it to be repeated. This is far better than answering the wrong question. The examiner wants to assess your knowledge, not your ability to guess what was said.
For a demonstration, keep safety in mind. Make sure the vehicle is secure before opening the bonnet, and never allow a technical question to distract you from your surroundings if you are in the driver’s seat.
A simple way to revise without cramming
Short, regular practice works better than trying to memorise everything the night before. During a lesson, ask your instructor to take you through each control and under-bonnet check. Then explain it back in your own words.
At home, write brief prompts rather than full scripts. For tyres, your prompt might be: damage, tread, pressure. For oil: level ground, engine off, dipstick, minimum and maximum marks. These prompts help you remember the process while keeping your answer natural.
It also helps to practise in the car with a family member or friend. Ask them to name a check at random. Find the relevant control or component, then explain what you would do. A few five-minute rehearsals build familiarity quickly.
If you are hiring a car for the driving test, make sure you are shown the controls and basic checks for that vehicle beforehand. Switch positions, dashboard displays and bonnet layouts differ between models. Familiarity removes one more source of pressure on the day.
Do not let one question unsettle the rest of your test
Even well-prepared learners can occasionally hesitate. If that happens, take a breath, listen again and give the safest answer you can. Once the question is finished, let it go and bring your attention back to your driving.
Your test is about your overall ability to drive safely, responsibly and independently. The show me tell me questions are one useful part of that picture, not a reason to doubt yourself. A calm rehearsal with an instructor can turn these checks from a source of worry into a routine you will use long after you pass.