Specialist testing
Train Driver Psychometric Testing.
RCG is an approved provider of train driver psychometric testing, delivered in line with RIS-3751-TOM.
Overview
Approved TDLCR Psychometric Testing
Train driving requires sustained attention, accurate information processing, reliable decision-making and consistent performance under pressure.
Railway Competence Group are members of the RACF and are approved by the RSSB to deliver Train Driver Psychometric Testing for train operators, employers and private candidates. Assessments are completed through a standardised process in a controlled professional environment, with clear candidate communication.
The standardised process is required for GB Train Driver licensing.
Approved provider
Testing for operators and private individuals
RCG is approved to deliver train driver psychometric testing in accordance with RIS-3751-TOM, the Rail Industry Standard for train driver selection and assessment.
As a member of the Rail Assessment Centre Forum (RACF), RCG provides compliant, professionally delivered psychometric assessments to support rail organisations in selecting candidates and private individuals who meet the required industry standard.
We can support both individual assessments and larger recruitment campaigns, providing a reliable and consistent testing service aligned with rail industry requirements.
What this means for you
- Assessments delivered in line with RIS-3751-TOM.
- RACF membership supports consistent industry practice.
- Flexible delivery for single candidates or campaigns.
- Professionally administered process.
- Results are valid with all train operating companies (TOCs) and freight operating companies (FOCs).
The standard
What is RIS-3751-TOM?
RIS-3751-TOM is the Rail Industry Standard for psychometric assessment in train driver selection on the GB mainline railway. Published by the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB), it sets out the requirements and guidance for assessing whether train driver candidates have the cognitive, psychomotor and behavioural aptitudes required for the role.
The current standard, RIS-3751-TOM Issue 4, was published in December 2024 and provides a consistent framework for train driver psychometric assessment across the industry.
Why it matters
- Defines the aptitudes train driver candidates must demonstrate.
- Supports fair, consistent and defensible testing process.
- Applies to GB railway operators and approved assessment centres.
- Part of a wider recruitment, medical and competence process.
Industry alignment
Testing aligned with rail industry requirements
The standardised psychometric assessment process for train-driver selection is set out in RIS-3751-TOM issue four. It applies to the selection of drivers who will operate within the Office of Rail and Road-defined limits of the GB mainline railway and will form one part of an operator's wider selection process.
The process evaluates job-related selection criteria using established assessments covering attention, vigilance, memory, reasoning, perception, reaction time, hand coordination, communication and behavioural aptitudes. It has been evaluated through rail-industry research examining its validity, reliability and fairness.
“Psychometric selection is not the only requirement for licensing”
What is assessed
Attributes relevant to train driving
RIS-3751-TOM associates these attributes with a standardised combination of paper-based tests, computer-based tests, a situational judgement exercise and a structured multi-modal interview.
Attention
Concentrating accurately and maintaining performance during repetitive or extended tasks.
Vigilance
Remaining alert over time during tasks that may be monotonous.
Memory
Learning, retaining and recalling instructions and rule-related information.
Reasoning
Understanding information and applying logical thinking to unfamiliar material.
Perception
Interpreting visual information accurately when presented for a limited period.
Reaction time
Responding appropriately and promptly when changing conditions are presented.
Hand coordination
Coordinating controlled physical responses accurately using both hands.
Communication
Understanding questions and communicating information clearly and appropriately.
Behavioural aptitudes
Conscientiousness, and appropriate responses to safety-related situations.
Our commitments
Standardised and professionally overseen
Standardised delivery
Candidates completing the same assessment are briefed and assessed using the applicable standardised procedure.
Standardised conditions
Testing takes place in an environment selected to support the standardised assessment process.
Qualified oversight
Assessments are administered and interpreted by appropriately trained personnel within the required professional and industry arrangements.
The assessment process
Clear from booking to results
- 01
Enquiry and eligibility
Candidate information will be checked to establish previous assessment eligibility before a date is confirmed.
- 02
Booking information
Once agreed, the candidate receives joining instructions and practice materials for their assessment.
- 03
Test Delivery
Testing is delivered in a suitable assessment environment using the required standardised procedures.
- 04
Results and feedback
Assessment results and feedback are provided to the candidate on the day. Results are shared with operators.
- 05
Database Entry
Candidate and assessment details are recorded on the Rail Assessment Centre Forum (RACF) database.
For employers & train operators
Assessments for recruitment
RCG works with employers and operators to plan and deliver Train Driver Psychometric.
Assessment planning
Candidate eligibility checks
Candidate communications
Reasonable adjustments
Outcome reporting
Industry database recording
For private candidates
Book an assessment
Suitable for candidates who want to complete the Train Driver psychometric assessment independently rather than through an employer recruitment campaign.
Before accepting a booking, RCG will need to establish:
Your identity
Previous assessment history
Eligibility for further testing
Reasonable adjustment needs
Completing private testing does not guarantee that a train operator will progress an application or offer employment. Candidates are strongly advised to confirm the requirements of their intended employer before booking.
Book Private Psychometric TestingTest day
Preparing for your assessment
On the day
What to bring
- Photo ID: a valid passport or UK photocard driving licence.
- Glasses or contact lenses, if you wear them for reading or screens.
- Arrive 15 minutes before your start time. Late arrivals may not be able to sit the test.
- Phones and smart watches are switched off and stored during testing.
- Get a good night's sleep and eat beforehand. Water is fine to bring.
Getting here
Manchester centre
- Trains: Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria are the nearest main stations.
- Tram: Metrolink connects both stations to the city centre.
- Parking: city-centre car parks are nearby. Allow extra time at busy periods.
Your joining instructions confirm the exact address once your booking is confirmed.
Results & confidentiality
Industry Database
For employers, the result will be shared with the authorised operator contact.
For a private candidate assessment, results and feedback will be provided directly to the candidate and will not be shared with an operator unless required in accordance with applicable industry requirements.
Assessment results for both employer and private candidates are also recorded on the RACF industry database, in accordance with RIS-3751-TOM.
Adjustments
Reasonable adjustments
Candidates with a disability may request a reasonable adjustment. Requests should be made as early as possible so that the circumstances can be considered before the assessment date. Supporting evidence will be required.
An adjustment cannot be guaranteed if it is requested on the assessment day. The assessment may need to be rescheduled where there has not been enough time to review and arrange appropriate adjustments.
Questions
Train Driver Psychometric Testing FAQs
Answers on the assessment process, licensing, results, confidentiality, attempts rules, reasonable adjustments and how to book private psychometric testing. Based on the RSSB 3751-FAQ Issue one (December 2024).
Private testing