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.
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 TransPennine Express or any train operating company.
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
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 TransPennine Express process
Before the OPC battery, most TransPennine Express 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 TransPennine Express 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
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 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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Avanti West Coast Train Driver: Application, OPC Test & What to Expect
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Train Driver Salary UK 2026: What You'll Actually Earn
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What to Expect on Your Train Driver Assessment Day
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Train Driver Medical Requirements UK: The Complete Guide
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Northern Trains Train Driver Application: Tests, Assessment & How to Prepare
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Greater Anglia Train Driver Application: Process, OPC Tests & Salary
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ScotRail Train Driver Application: Process, OPC Tests & What to Expect
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The 2-Hand Coordination Test: What Train Driver Candidates Need to Know
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The TEA-OCC Test: A Complete Guide for Train Driver Candidates
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GTR Train Driver Application Guide: Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern & Gatwick Express
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Southeastern Train Driver Application Guide: How to Get Hired as a SE Trains Driver
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TransPennine Express Train Driver Application Guide 2025
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East Midlands Railway Train Driver Application Guide 2025
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2-Week OPC Test Preparation Plan: How to Prepare for UK Train Driver Psychometric Tests
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How to Use AI to Practise for Your Train Driver Interview
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SCAAT Test: How the Safe Concentration and Attention Test Works (and How to Practise)
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The Train Driver DMI Interview: What the Drivers' Manager Interview Involves
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The Mechanical Comprehension Test: What It Is and Where It Fits in Rail Selection
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