Applying to drive for TransPennine Express?
TransPennine Express (TPE) operates inter-regional services across Northern England and into Scotland. Now under public ownership as a government-operated service, TPE continues to recruit train drivers who must pass the OPC psychometric test battery.
Northern England and Scotland — Liverpool to Edinburgh/Glasgow via Manchester, York & Newcastle
The TransPennine Express OPC Assessment
TPE routes include some of Britain's most varied rail environments — from busy urban stations in Manchester and Leeds to exposed trans-Pennine sections where weather and visibility can change rapidly. The cognitive demands are high, and the Vigilance Test is designed to identify candidates with the sustained attention these conditions require.
The ATAVT's one-second flash format mirrors the rapid visual processing required when a driver approaches a station at line speed. Processing a complex scene quickly and accurately — distinguishing what was and wasn't present — is a skill that improves significantly with practice.
TPE assessments are typically held at depots across the North. As a government-operated railway, recruitment information is available directly through the TPE careers site. Competition for train driver roles is high — preparation makes a genuine difference.
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
Is TransPennine Express the same as Northern?
No. TPE and Northern are separate train operating companies, though both operate in the North of England. Northern focuses on local and regional services; TPE operates longer inter-city routes. Both use the same OPC psychometric battery for driver selection.
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.