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.
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
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
TRP1 — Rules & Procedures
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
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 real test?
Our tests match the format and parameters of the real OPC assessment — 30 minutes for the Vigilance test, brief flashes for the ATAVT. No practice site can replicate the exact proprietary software, but the format is calibrated to match.
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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UK Train Driver OPC Assessment: A Complete Guide
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