Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

• Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

• Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level. 

Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level. 

• Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear. 

Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel. 

• Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level. 

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level. 

• Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only). 

Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary). 

•  Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. 

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings. 

• Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working. 

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators. 

•  Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. 

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. 

• Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. 

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side. 

• Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. 

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle. 

•  Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. 

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. 

• Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working. 

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators. 

• Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road. 

No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ü of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. 

• Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash. 

• Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers . 

Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary. 

• Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens. 

• Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system. 

Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system. 

• Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car. 

Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light. 

• Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle). 

Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use. 

Note: Failure on one or both of the show me tell me questions will result in one minor fault. 

THE DRIVING SCHOOL CODE OF PRACTICE

The driving school code of practice is an agreement between the DSA and the main ADI organizations. The code place emphasis on professional standards and business ethics. Qualified driving instructors are expected to operate within the framework set out by the code, however the code is only voluntary. The main criteria of the code is as follows.

Personal Conduct - a driving instructor should:

The Training Vehicle Should be:

• properly maintained

• safe and roadworthy

• legal for giving instruction

• clean, both internally and externally

Business Dealings - a driving instructor should:

• Safeguard and account for any monies paid in advance for driving lessons, test fees or any other purpose. These details should be available to clients on request.

• Make sure clients are entitled to drive the training vehicle, have a valid driving licence and can read a number plate from the prescribed distance.

• Ensure that when presenting a client for a driving test that they have all the correct documentation and that the car is roadworthy.

• Forecast client's readiness, and advise them when to apply for their theory and practical tests, taking into account local waiting times.

• Not cancel or rearrange tests without the clients agreement.

• Make sure a client, if taking intensive driving lessons, is aware of the potential loss of fees if the test is not taken or if the course is not completed.

• Make sure the whole of the lesson time is dedicated to the pupil's instruction, not to any other business.

• Do their best to teach clients the correct driving skills in accordance to the DSA's recommended syllabus.

• Provide clients, on or before their first lesson, with a written copy of their terms of business. This should include:

Advertising

All advertising relating to a driving school or instructor should be honest. Any claims made should be readily verified and should comply with the codes of practice laid down by the Advertising Standards Authority. Any advertising referring to pass rates should not be open to misinterpretation and the basis on which these rates are calculated should be made clear.

If You Need To Make A Complaint Against a driving school or driving instructor contact the:

The ADI Registrar