Applying to drive for West Midlands Trains?
West Midlands Trains operates under two brands — London Northwestern Railway and West Midlands Railway — covering commuter, suburban, and regional services across the West Midlands and beyond. All train driver candidates must pass the OPC psychometric test battery.
Birmingham and the West Midlands — London Euston, Coventry, Stafford, Shrewsbury
The West Midlands Trains OPC Assessment
West Midlands Trains runs services from Birmingham through to London Euston (London Northwestern) as well as intensive local services across the West Midlands conurbation. The variety of operating environments — from four-track main lines to single-track branches — means drivers need a broad range of competencies, starting with the sustained attention measured by the Vigilance Test.
The ATAVT is particularly relevant for the number of level crossings on WMT's regional routes. Processing a complex visual scene accurately in one second is a directly transferable skill for level crossing approach assessments.
WMT assessments are typically held at their Birmingham facility. Both London Northwestern Railway and West Midlands Railway are recruited under the same West Midlands Trains umbrella, with the same OPC battery.
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
Are London Northwestern Railway and West Midlands Railway the same company?
Both brands are operated by West Midlands Trains Limited. Train driver recruitment covers both brands, and candidates complete a single selection process including the OPC assessment.
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.