East Midlands Railway · OPC Practice

Applying to drive for East Midlands Railway?

East Midlands Railway (EMR) operates intercity and regional services between London St Pancras, Nottingham, Derby, Sheffield, and Lincoln. EMR recruits train drivers at multiple depots and all candidates must complete the OPC psychometric assessment as part of the selection process.

London St Pancras, Nottingham, Derby, Sheffield & Lincoln

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The East Midlands Railway OPC Assessment

EMR services range from fast intercity expresses to slower regional trains, so drivers need to sustain focus across very different operating environments. The Vigilance Test measures this core competency — the ability to remain alert and responsive regardless of how quiet or routine conditions appear.

The ATAVT requires you to process a complex visual scene in one second and accurately identify which elements were present. For EMR routes that include level crossings and mixed-use infrastructure, this reflects a genuine on-the-job skill.

EMR recruits periodically for trainee train drivers and experienced drivers at depots including Nottingham, Derby, Sheffield, and Neville Hill (Leeds). All recruitment includes the full OPC battery. Preparing in advance significantly reduces assessment-day nerves and improves performance.

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

Does East Midlands Railway use the same OPC tests as other operators?

Yes. EMR uses the standardised OPC psychometric battery (RSSB RIS-3751-TOM), which includes the Vigilance Test (WAFV) and ATAVT among other assessments. The format is identical across all UK train operating companies.

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

9 min read

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How to Pass the UK Train Driver Vigilance Test (WAFV)

6 min read

→

How to Pass the Train Driver ATAVT Test