Vehicle safety questions asked during your UK practical driving test — learn every answer.
You'll be asked one 'Tell Me' question (before driving) and one 'Show Me' question (while driving).
If your driving becomes dangerous while answering a 'Show Me' question, you will fail the test immediately.
A wrong answer to a vehicle safety question counts as one minor fault — so learn them well!
The examiner asks you to explain how you'd carry out a vehicle safety check — while stationary before setting off.
Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Answer: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Test as you set off — vehicle should not pull to one side.
Where would you find recommended tyre pressures, and how should they be checked?
Answer: Use a reliable pressure gauge. Check when cold. Do not forget the spare — refit valve caps.
How do you ensure your head restraint is correctly adjusted?
Answer: The rigid part should be at least as high as the top of the ears, as close to the head as comfortable.
How would you check tyres have sufficient tread depth and are safe to use?
Answer: No cuts or bulges. Minimum 1.6mm tread across the central 3/4 of the tyre, around the full circumference.
How would you check headlights and tail lights are working without leaving the car?
Answer: Operate the switch and walk round the vehicle to confirm all lights are functioning.
How would you know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system?
Answer: An ABS warning light will illuminate on the dashboard to indicate a fault.
How would you check direction indicators are working without leaving the car?
Answer: Operate the switch, then walk around the vehicle to visually check all indicators flash.
How would you check that the brake lights are working on this car?
Answer: Press the brake pedal — use window reflections or ask someone to help you confirm the lights.
How would you check the power-assisted steering is working before a journey?
Answer: Apply gentle pressure on the wheel before starting — a slight movement on ignition confirms it is working.
How would you switch on rear fog lights and when would you use them?
Answer: Operate the fog light switch. Use when visibility drops below 100 metres.
How do you switch from dipped to main beam, and how do you know it is on?
Answer: Operate the stalk switch — the blue main beam warning light will illuminate on the dashboard.
For these three questions, you'll need to open the bonnet and explain how you'd perform the check to the examiner.
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Answer: Locate the dipstick, remove and wipe clean, reinsert fully, then remove again. Oil level must be between min and max markers.
Tell me how you would check the engine has sufficient coolant.
Answer: Identify the header tank. Check the level is between the high and low markers. Top up with correct coolant if needed.
Tell me how you would check a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Answer: Locate the brake fluid reservoir. Check the fluid level sits between the high and low markings on the side of the reservoir.
The examiner asks you to demonstrate a vehicle control while driving — only when it is safe to do so.
When safe to do so, show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen.
When safe to do so, show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen.
When safe to do so, show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights.
When safe to do so, show me how you would set the rear demister.
When safe to do so, show me how you would operate the horn.
When safe to do so, show me how you would demist the front windscreen.
When safe to do so, show me how you would open and close the side window.
We practice these questions in every lesson so you're never caught off-guard on test day.
