Applying to drive for Northern?
Northern is one of the largest train operators in the UK, running hundreds of services daily across the North of England. Train driver recruitment is highly competitive, and candidates must pass the OPC psychometric test battery — including the Vigilance Test and ATAVT.
Cities and towns across the North of England
The Northern OPC Assessment
Northern routes include busy commuter corridors as well as rural branch lines, meaning drivers need strong sustained attention across varied and sometimes monotonous operating conditions. The 30-minute Vigilance Test is designed to measure precisely this — the ability to stay alert even when very little is happening.
The ATAVT follows the same format used across all UK train operating companies: a one-second flash of a traffic scene, followed by a multi-choice question about which elements were present. Speed and accuracy both matter — hesitation or careless ticking will hurt your score.
Northern uses the OPC battery as part of a competitive selection process. Candidates who have practised report feeling significantly calmer and more prepared — knowing what the tests look like removes a major source of stress on the day.
What you'll practice
Two 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
FAQ
Common questions
Does Northern recruit drivers directly or through agencies?
Northern recruits train drivers directly. Vacancies are listed on the Northern careers page and on jobs.northern-trains.co.uk. The OPC assessment is typically held at one of their training centres.
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 both tests with unlimited attempts. Access never expires.
Can I get a refund?
Because you receive immediate access to digital content, we don't offer refunds. Contact us if you have any issues.