Are you applying to be a train driver? Prepare for the psychometric assessment. Access Tips and Resources About the Train Driver Interview, Assessments, and Psychometric Testing Online
- What is a train driver assessment?
- How do I pass a train driver interview?
- How long do train driver assessments last?
- How many times can you take the train driver assessment?
- How long does the trainee Train Driver application take?
- How long does it take to be a Train Driver?
- What is a driver psychometric assessment?
Train Driver Assessments can be incredibly rigorous. Each train operating company runs its recruitment process, though they are all known for being difficult. Be prepared to score very well on the assessment to move forward in the recruitment process. Because train driving can be a dangerous profession, operating companies will put candidates through a series of psychometric assessments to make sure they are fit to perform the duties of the job.
Exam Details
Train driver assessments do not require specific knowledge of how trains operate or the laws associated with train driving. Instead, they are meant to test an individual’s cognitive and psychomotor skills that they will need to adhere to strict safety measures and perform at the highest level at all times. The assessments will test concentration, observational skills, memory recall, reactions, vigilance, and cognitive processing. The exact details of the assessment will be determined by the authority governing the specific role. However, these are some of the sections you can expect to see:
- Mechanical Reasoning – assesses your ability to understand mechanical concepts and then apply them to a logical reasoning question.
- Rules and Procedures – tests if you’re capable of reading and/or listening to a piece of information and answering multiple choice questions related to what was conveyed.
- Group Bourdon – this is a psychomotor test that will ask you to concentrate and observe small details under timed pressure
- Everyday Attention – tests your multitasking skills and your ability to concentrate with several auditory and visual distractions.
- Traffic Perception & Vigilance – you will be tested on your ability to gauge your surroundings and stay alert.
- Situational judgment – you will be tasked with using your best judgment to make the best choice in a challenging scenario
Test Preparation
Since the train driver assessment doesn’t have a specific set of right or wrong answers, it may be difficult to find a practice test that will give you the exact questions you’ll encounter — especially because they will vary depending on what train authority is testing you.
Instead, seek out multiple practice tests that will prepare you for the environment you’ll be placed under when you are tasked with taking the actual exam. This will expose you to as many types of questions as possible and also ease the pressure of the timed test.
