Theory and Practical Test

Passing the theory test

Learner's sign Learn There are two parts of the theory test: 50 multiple choice questions with one possible out of four answers you can choose from, and a Hazard perception test consisted of 14 short hazard video clips of variety of situations on the road. There are a number of sources to help you prepare for your theory test. Visit Car theory test preparation (safedrivingforlife.info) to read more about preparing for the Theory test. For more information and practice visit Free Theory Tests | My Theory Test or www.safedrivingforlife.info.

Passing the practical test

Show me Tell me questions

As a part of the driving test the examiner may ask you one "Show me" and one "Tell me" question. Some of the questions will be asked before getting on the road, and some will be asked on the road while driving.

"Tell me" questions are:

Q Tell me how you'd check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

A Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
Q Tell me where you'd find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

A Manufacturer's guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
Q Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.

A The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Note: Some restraints might not be adjustable.
Q Tell me how you'd check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.

A No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
Q Tell me how you'd check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

A Explain you'd operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle (as this is a 'tell me' question, you don't need to physically check the lights).
Q Tell me how you'd know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.

A Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.
Q Tell me how you'd check the direction indicators are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

A Explain you'd operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and then walk round vehicle (as this is a 'tell me' question, you don't need to physically check the lights).
Q Tell me how you'd check the brake lights are working on this car.

A Explain you'd operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.
Q Tell me how you'd check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

A If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made: Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate.
Q Tell me how you'd switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you'd use it/them. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

A Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.
Q Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you'd know the main beam is on.

A Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
Q Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient oil.

A Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.
Q Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.

A Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Q Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

A Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings.

On the road

The examiner will check you sight and then will ask you to enter the car and prepare for driving. They will be giving you directions clearly and in good timing. As part of the driving test, often there will be one manoeuvre, and around 20 minutes independent driving. The independent driving includes following direction sings and/or following instructions from a SatNav. Additionally, the examiner will ask you a "Show me" question:

When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd switch on your dipped headlights?
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd set the rear demister?
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd operate the horn?
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd demist the front windscreen?
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd open and close the side window?

Independent driving

The examiner will ask you to follow directions toward town, district, motorway etc., clearly displayed on a directional sign. You will need to read the directional sign, identify the direction and follow each junction or roundabout exit until the examiner inform you about the end of the independent driving.
In some case the examiner may give you instructions as to drive until you reach the end of the road, then turn left/right and follow the road until you reach, for instance, a roundabout where you should take the third exit and then follow the road until you reach another roundabout (or end of the road) etc. Before you move on, the examiner will make sure you remembered the whole section correctly and only then will aks you to drive.
The examiner will also ask you to follow instructions given from a SatNav.

DVSA send the test result electronically. To understand what makes you a safe driver, please read Car driving test - Understanding your driving test result - Guidance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)