Applying to drive for CrossCountry?
CrossCountry operates the longest domestic rail routes in Britain, connecting Aberdeen and Penzance via Birmingham. The extended journeys demand exceptional sustained concentration, making the Vigilance Test a particularly important part of CrossCountry's driver selection process.
Train Driver Tests is an independent practice platform. Our exercises are practice versions modelled on the OPC assessment formats — they are not the official tests, and we are not affiliated with CrossCountry or any train operating company.
Long-distance routes across England and Scotland
The CrossCountry OPC Assessment
Long-distance inter-regional routes mean CrossCountry drivers spend extended periods in the cab, often on routes they travel multiple times per week. The 30-minute Vigilance Test simulates the kind of sustained alertness required — any lapse in concentration during a real journey could have serious consequences.
The ATAVT is equally important for CrossCountry, which operates over a wide variety of infrastructure including urban stations, rural lines, and complex junctions. Quickly and accurately assessing a scene is a daily requirement for drivers on these varied routes.
CrossCountry uses the OPC battery alongside other selection exercises including group activities and competency interviews. The psychometric tests are not pass/fail in isolation — scores are considered as part of the full assessment picture. However, a strong OPC performance significantly strengthens your overall profile.
What you'll practice
Four practice tests included
Vigilance Test
A grey square sits in the centre of the screen. Watch it for 30 minutes and press Space the moment it turns black. Tests sustained attention — a core skill for train drivers.
- ✓30-minute full-length simulation
- ✓Random stimulus intervals
- ✓Scored on hits, misses & reaction time
Hazard Perception Flash Test
A practice version of the hazard-perception flash test (similar to the ATAVT). A traffic scene flashes for 1 second. Identify which elements you saw — lights, vehicles, pedestrians, signs, bicycles, motorcycles. Tests perceptual speed and scene awareness.
- ✓20 scenes per session
- ✓Brief flash per scene
- ✓Per-element identification scoring
Rules & Procedures Test
A practice version of the rules & procedures memory test (similar to the TRP1). Read a set of train operating rules for 5 minutes, then answer 18 questions from memory in 15 minutes. Tests comprehension and rule retention under time pressure.
- ✓6 different question sets
- ✓18 questions per session
- ✓Timed reading & recall phases
Group Bourdon
A printable concentration test. Scan rows of dot groups and mark every group containing exactly four dots. Tests sustained concentration and systematic accuracy.
- ✓Randomly generated each time
- ✓Print-at-home format
- ✓Answer key included on page 2
Free preparation
Earlier stages of the CrossCountry process
Before the OPC battery, most CrossCountry applicants face an online situational judgement test, and after the OPC comes a competency-based interview. Both are free to practise here — no sign-up required.
Situational Judgement Test
The online screening test most CrossCountry candidates face before the OPC. Read the guide, then try a 5-scenario practice demo with detailed explanations.
Competency Interview Prep
20 train driver competency questions across safety, rules, focus, communication and motivation — each with STAR framework prompts, tips and pitfalls to avoid.
FAQ
Common questions
Where are CrossCountry driver assessments held?
CrossCountry assessment centres are typically located at their main depots. Birmingham New Street is a key CrossCountry hub. Check the current vacancy details for the specific location.
Which tests are included in the OPC battery?
The OPC (Occupational Personality and Cognitive) battery includes the Vigilance Test (WAFV), ATAVT, Group Bourdon, and several other assessments. The exact combination varies slightly by operator but all are governed by RSSB standard RIS-3751-TOM.
Is this the same as the official test?
No. These are independent practice tests modelled on the format and parameters of the official OPC assessment — 30 minutes for the vigilance test, brief flashes for the hazard-perception test. No practice site can replicate the exact proprietary software, but the format is calibrated to be similar.
What happens after I pay?
You get instant access to all four tests with unlimited attempts. Access never expires.
Can I get a refund?
If you're not happy with the product, contact us within 7 days and we'll make it right — either by resolving the issue or issuing a full refund.
Free preparation guides
How to Become a Train Driver in the UK: The Complete Guide
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How to Pass the UK Train Driver Vigilance Test (WAFV)
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How to Pass the Train Driver ATAVT Test
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Group Bourdon Test: How It Works and How to Score Higher
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UK Train Driver OPC Assessment: A Complete Guide
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How to Pass the TRP1 Test: Rules & Procedures Guide
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What Happens If You Fail the OPC Psychometric Test?
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How Hard Is the Train Driver Psychometric Test?
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Train Driver Competency Interview Questions: Full Guide
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