SWR - Trainee Driver - Recruitment Discussion

[dilwar04]

HI everyone just thought id let you know, i've passed the stage 2 C0mputerised test. To be honest I found the WAFV test easy however my eyes did start to strain so I would blink as soon as it changes none the less I didn't miss any just 1 double tap but idk if the second tap was registered since I was quick and perhaps it was light enough of a press so it may have not went through, all in all that test was by far the easiest.

The ATAVT test I found hard even though I had practised that sort of timed image with multiple choice options test many time. I think it had just caught me off guard, there were 20 images in total. went I went back to the waiting room I felt that this test was the one that could make me fail and I though I had failed I wasn't really confident that I had passed that.

Next I had the 2 Hand coordination test. Funny story, this whole test it was just me and 1 other person, with this task, I was practising the example questions back and fourth many time, sensitivity was kinda weird, I had made a complaint to the lady who was with us in the room that every time I move the joystick left and right it doesn't move smoothly like there a lag, the best way I can describe it would be as if you had high ping where you'd move the joystick left and it would stay there and move all of a sudden. so it was hard to judge how much it would move by and of it would stay within then lines if id move it a certain amount. the lady replied with she had never had this complaint before and everyone who'd used it was fine with it (must be just me then) I guess. I then continued with the practice question, to get use it when the other guy next to me had already finished and went to the waiting room. the lady then said you dont have all day to practice lol. then I started the test after the 4th rerun I think I made 1-2 mistake of going out the lines.

Finally, the lady had called me in after giving the result of the other guy since he finished first. during that wait I didn't feel confident that I had passed. I go in she said good news is you passed, I was genuine happy as well as kind of in disbelieve. i don't think I did as bad as I though I had done, Test 1 and 3 was my strongest point. I was then told my DMI would be next followed by a MMI.

I have no idea how to prepare for the DMI, if anyone can help me with this that would be great.

My test was on the 26th June at 1130am

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Jun 2026 ==

Is there anyone able and willing to share details/questions of the DMI? TIA

ME TOO, just need some info to start preparing for it haven't been given a date for the DMI but id rather practice.

 

[Waterlooville]

I recently went through the railway interview process and wanted to share some practical tips that might help others preparing for roles in the industry.
First, research the company and role thoroughly. Understand the railway operator’s values, safety standards, and recent developments. Railway organisations place a huge emphasis on safety, reliability, and customer service, so be ready to explain how your experience supports these areas.

Second, prepare for competency-based questions. You’ll likely be asked to give examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Common topics include teamwork, handling pressure, dealing with difficult situations, and following strict procedures. Make sure your examples are clear, structured, and relevant.

Third, know the importance of safety culture. In rail, safety is critical. Be prepared to discuss how you follow rules, stay alert, and take responsibility. If you can show awareness of risk and compliance, it’s a big advantage.

Also, practice communication skills. Many railway roles involve interacting with passengers or colleagues in high-pressure situations. Clear, calm communication is key.
Finally, present yourself professionally. Arrive early, dress smartly, and show enthusiasm for the job. Rail companies look for people who are dependable, disciplined, and motivated.
If possible, do a mock interview beforehand—it really helps build confidence.
Good luck to anyone applying! Happy to answer questions if needed

 

[005leo]

Its been 2 months since I answered my tests for SWR but still no signs of DMI...);

 

[dilwar04]

I recently went through the railway interview process and wanted to share some practical tips that might help others preparing for roles in the industry.
First, research the company and role thoroughly. Understand the railway operator’s values, safety standards, and recent developments. Railway organisations place a huge emphasis on safety, reliability, and customer service, so be ready to explain how your experience supports these areas.

Second, prepare for competency-based questions. You’ll likely be asked to give examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Common topics include teamwork, handling pressure, dealing with difficult situations, and following strict procedures. Make sure your examples are clear, structured, and relevant.

Third, know the importance of safety culture. In rail, safety is critical. Be prepared to discuss how you follow rules, stay alert, and take responsibility. If you can show awareness of risk and compliance, it’s a big advantage.

Also, practice communication skills. Many railway roles involve interacting with passengers or colleagues in high-pressure situations. Clear, calm communication is key.
Finally, present yourself professionally. Arrive early, dress smartly, and show enthusiasm for the job. Rail companies look for people who are dependable, disciplined, and motivated.
If possible, do a mock interview beforehand—it really helps build confidence.
Good luck to anyone applying! Happy to answer questions if needed

THANKS MATE, I appreciate the adviCe. This must be for DMI INTERVIEW

 

[Waterlooville]

Its been 2 months since I answered my tests for SWR but still no signs of DMI...);

Thats nothing, people in our group have waiting anything up to a year plus for DMI, then you have the MMI to await. As any research will tell you the journey into the railway takes many years,

 

[rozza1234]

Staines has just come out this afternoon - https://careers.southwesternrailway...iver-staines-staines-middlesex-united-kingdom

I start training at the end of this year having applied last year.

How do you know you start the end of the year? You haven't done the MMI yet right? Or medical that comes after that? Or have I got that wrong and they have given you a contract to start at the end of the year?

 

[Waterlooville]

How do you know you start the end of the year? You haven't done the MMI yet right? Or medical that comes after that? Or have I got that wrong and they have given you a contract to start at the end of the year?

I have been in direct contact with the recruitment team and the driving recruitment SPOC - they have 12 courses per year of 12 and each allocation has various spaces for each depot etc. I am only awaiting MMI and medical but they are allocated at the point at which you are earmarked for a course - currently they are filling Nov / Dec courses. I had been earmarked for Sept however I want to start later, so am looking at Nov/Dec/Jan. I know I am next on the list for my depot, and have been told I get my MMI this month so I am ready to go. My circs are quite complex though as I am trying to align leaving current job and getting a payout with starting with SWR.

 

[rozza1234]

I have been in direct contact with the recruitment team and the driving recruitment SPOC - they have 12 courses per year of 12 and each allocation has various spaces for each depot etc. I am only awaiting MMI and medical but they are allocated at the point at which you are earmarked for a course - currently they are filling Nov / Dec courses. I had been earmarked for Sept however I want to start later, so am looking at Nov/Dec/Jan. I know I am next on the list for my depot, and have been told I get my MMI this month so I am ready to go. My circs are quite complex though as I am trying to align leaving current job and getting a payout with starting with SWR.

Ok so they give you a rough idea but you still need to pass the MMI and medical. MMI is no walk in a park. Optimism is great but a start date is never secure. They can and do put them back up to 12-18 months.

 

[Waterlooville]

Ok so they give you a rough idea but you still need to pass the MMI and medical. MMI is no walk in a park. Optimism is great but a start date is never secure. They can and do put them back up to 12-18 months.

Yeah for sure MMI isn't a given, never counted chickens before they hatch but I am confident. I know the questions and have strong answers set, I have worked on the frontline for the emergency services for just under 30 years so if I can't get past this interview which is looking for you demonstrate safety, procedure, communication, collaboration and responsivity something is very wrong. If it does go wrong then so be it, I stay where I am on a similar wage so it isn't life or death for me. In fact I would even gain on my existing pension by not leaving it early.

Are you in for a depot and what point are you at? SWR do MMI and medical at the point of plotting you on a course, so they all come at once. I am still being told Sept is highly likely however I really want to start later. Once you get to that stage, a few calls to recruitment should also give you the same info - the key is where you are on the list. I only started getting specifics when I got to the top (when you are in the middle it is all no information no information etc).

 

[rozza1234]

Yeah for sure MMI isn't a given, never counted chickens before they hatch but I am confident. I know the questions and have strong answers set, I have worked on the frontline for the emergency services for just under 30 years so if I can't get past this interview which is looking for you demonstrate safety, procedure, communication, collaboration and responsivity something is very wrong. If it does go wrong then so be it, I stay where I am on a similar wage so it isn't life or death for me. In fact I would even gain on my existing pension by not leaving it early.

Are you in for a depot and what point are you at? SWR do MMI and medical at the point of plotting you on a course, so they all come at once. I am still being told Sept is highly likely however I really want to start later. Once you get to that stage, a few calls to recruitment should also give you the same info - the key is where you are on the list. I only started getting specifics when I got to the top (when you are in the middle it is all no information no information etc).

Having confidence and optimism is great. I just think you should be careful by saying to others that you have a start date and are in a talent pool because right now you haven't got the basics in place which is a valid, full psychometrics pass secured.

It is a funny old game with recruiting because no one is at the top of the list for long. Every round of recruitment, every transfer from depot to depot and every internal driver can surpass you. You could go from top to bottom within a week. Without having even passed your psychometrics this means you are not even at the top despite what you might be told.

I don't think being from an emergency service background gains you any leverage to where you sit. It is your scores on all tests combined, of which none of us get told, it is our ego that tells us how well we did. I am from a teaching background and may or may not have scored higher than my peers that also applied.

Yes I am sat waiting in a talent pool for two TOCs, all completed, full psychometrics including MMI apart from the medicals for both which come when they allocate you a course. I have no holidays booked and ready to go. However, I am aware that I can be in them for years and I never have a start date guaranteed until I have the contract.
Recruitment can say you are next but in reality you aren't until you pass the medical and get the contract.

 

[Waterlooville]

Yes can't disagree with anything you have said. The test results and placings as well as the entire process is a mystery, so much so the modern day world it is amazing they get away with it frankly. Any employer should be able to face challenge and account for their internal processes and figures, a simple freedom of information act would soon bypass the whole "we cant tell you we wont tell you" mentality. I interviewed candidates internally on a few occasions and have had to document everything will full transparency just like any other industry. The fact that the rail industry is able to shroud ALL information from all candidates isn't really right in my eyes. We will all play the game to get the job but none of us know the mechanics behind the scenes, and as a result we are unable to identify or challenge discrepancies, bias or favouritism. In essence the railway is unaccountable. But it is what it is.

In terms of me yes I still have a couple of steps to go but I was given a specific date, not that I believe 100% anyway as like moving house until you are through the door on moving day you haven't been successful despite the process that leads up to it. I am still told it is highly likely I will will be on a course on that date but I actually want to push it back to early next year so I don't want to start then anyway. Lets see if I get the MMI and medical this month that I have been promised - if I do, then the next conversation is agreeing a mutual start date. Most TOCs do MMI first whereas mine does it last - I don't get that. I pilot recently failed MMI after passing everything else in our group, so I know full well it is not a given, but as I said this job is not the be all and end all for me anyway, so either way I am comfortable. I would actually lose money in the first few years and a lot of flexibility / working from home if I started as a trainee driver so I am more than content to not start too. Fortunately I can't really lose.

Just to add too, the depot I am in the pool for (Waterloo) has a large turnover so that may be why it is has been quick. I also had application in for Wimbledon but not sure where that is.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 8 Jul 2026 ==

Word of warning for those in the SWR journey - a friend of mine found out today (by accident) that one of his applications had been removed/deleted from the recruitment portal.

Woking and Guildford trainee roles were released today around 1130 and having applied for Guildford she went onto the portal to check the other applications was showing in her application list (3 existing ones live since last year) to find her top choice depot had vanished. Having called recruitment there was no reason or answer provided. As it turns out it seems like she is about to get a start date for one of the other depots however, this may affect other people. Recruitment could not account for it. It was live for 6 months as she went onto check it regularly, then poof "magically" disappeared.

Worth checking your portals if you have SWR applications in.

 

[Train Me Up]

I applied for Guildford today but a bit worried it's currently saying 1 hr 9 to drive door to door. This is at 6pm - out of peak hours it's 35 mins. Do you think I'll be ruled out for this? Do they judge it as below 1 hour in peak travel times?

Woking is bang on 1 hr - can I apply for both?

 

[Waterlooville]

Yes as they measure the drive at leak time / rush hour, so that would rule you out. But you can offer to relocate. Someone else who applied for Guildford in Jan this year start training next week - mental!

 

[Big O 82]

I applied for Guildford today but a bit worried it's currently saying 1 hr 9 to drive door to door. This is at 6pm - out of peak hours it's 35 mins. Do you think I'll be ruled out for this? Do they judge it as below 1 hour in peak travel times?

Woking is bang on 1 hr - can I apply for both?

They base it off a random business day in the future at 0430 and 1630 and take the longest journey available as the marker! You could have 4 routes and 1 could be 1 hr 5 mins that's the one they will take!

 

[Train Me Up]

They base it off a random business day in the future at 0430 and 1630 and take the longest journey available as the marker! You could have 4 routes and 1 could be 1 hr 5 mins that's the one they will take!

Thanks, that will scupper me for Guildford then!

 

[Big O 82]

Thanks, that will scupper me for Guildford then!

Have you said you are willing to relocate?

 

[Class2ldn]

Have you said you are willing to relocate?

Relocations for trainees is pretty much a no go now. They dont need to take the risk with so many applying for each job

 

[jakechamberlai]

Hi everyone, it's amazing to hear of the stories that people shared it is very insightful and beneficial.

I need help with my SWR Assessment I have just done the first art TRP 1AND2m, TEA OCC and Group Burden Test. 5th June I went in late supposed to be there at 10 got there late thankfully they said to still come in From London to Southampton I applied for Bournemouth vacancy as I'm planning to relocate. everything was fairly easy Paper Test, only 1 of us out of 9 got sent home. now ive got the 2nd Part computerised Test on 3rd July. Can someone Describe in fair detail on what it involves so I can have an idea of what to expect. so Far ive been using ProTrainDriverUK.

The WAFV Test with grey box which turns black I'm clicking my mouse at 350 milisecond (MS) is that enough time. I used that website and did the 30 minutes practice, my average was 380MS. just want to know if that is similar to the Test and is my Timing Okay.

The ATAVT Test I'm struggling on that mainly as I'm not seeing everyone I can only focus on 2-3 things feels too quick to identify everything. if anyone can share any advise, that would be very much appreciated.

Finally the 2Hand Coordination what is it like, can someone share what was displayed on the screen as well + if it was easy to use the toggle stick so far ive been using my Mouse and ASD button on my keyboard. mouse to move up and down and AD key to move sides way. Thanks Everyone

Hiya there,

When you went in for your paper assessments. Did you receive the 89 page practice papers prior via email? And if so were they any different to the actual tests you done on the day you took the assessments? And did you do further searches in trying to find sites to help get more information on things?

Apology if you've already been asked similar.

 

[005leo]

Hello guys,
Did anybody completed their tests in May and still waiting for their DMI?

 

[Waterlooville]

Hiya there,

When you went in for your paper assessments. Did you receive the 89 page practice papers prior via email? And if so were they any different to the actual tests you done on the day you took the assessments? And did you do further searches in trying to find sites to help get more information on things?

Apology if you've already been asked similar.

The pre read hat SWR send you is detailed but the tests are all different, excluding one, which is the group bourdon. A quick google or search online will bring up most of the info although it is very limited.

Hello guys,
Did anybody completed their tests in May and still waiting for their DMI?

The DMI / MMI process are long waits and can take months / years post assessments if you have done them all.

 

[DanTaylor]

Hello guys,
Did anybody completed their tests in May and still waiting for their DMI?

Yeah im in the same boat mate

 

[thejedtrain]

Applied in Feb and still nothing for DMI.

 

[Train Me Up]

Relocations for trainees is pretty much a no go now. They dont need to take the risk with so many applying for each job

Am I better off withdrawing the Guildford application and waiting for one closer? Or can I apply for more than one at a time?

 

[Waterlooville]

Am I better off withdrawing the Guildford application and waiting for one closer? Or can I apply for more than one at a time?

You can apply for as many as you want and the travelling time can be discussed/negotiated with SWR as people often relocate or stay in temporary accomodation. Recruitment will be able to inform you about all of this if you email or call them.

 

[Class2ldn]

Am I better off withdrawing the Guildford application and waiting for one closer? Or can I apply for more than one at a time?

The thing is they will normally check it at rush hour as they need a worst case scenario, its no good being able to get there in an hour 90% of the time but not at the worst times of the day.
Whats your nearest depot?
You night scrape it but only they will know.

 

[Train Me Up]

You can apply for as many as you want and the travelling time can be discussed/negotiated with SWR as people often relocate or stay in temporary accomodation. Recruitment will be able to inform you about all of this if you email or call them.

OK thanks

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 14 Jul 2026 ==

The thing is they will normally check it at rush hour as they need a worst case scenario, its no good being able to get there in an hour 90% of the time but not at the worst times of the day.
Whats your nearest depot?
You night scrape it but only they will know.

Strawberry Hill, Wimbledon, Feltham, Waterloo, Staines & Woking all a bit closer but would be happy to relocate closer to Guildford.

Has anyone seen Wimbledon advertised recently?

 

[Waterlooville]

Yes its been up twice since Xmas, Feltham is due, Staines was up twice since October. Woking twice, Guildford once. And Farnham once. I was in the list for some of those but they are long lists. so long wait.

 

[james16]

Anyone had any progress after applying for the Woking depot?

 

[Tomcat90]

Anyone had any progress after applying for the Woking depot?

I was told I’d passed the initial online assessment. However they said that “in the interest of fairness” they can’t progress everyone straight away so it sounds like it’s now a waiting game until everyone has completed the assessments to establish scores for sifting

 

[Waterlooville]

Anyone had any progress after applying for the Woking depot?

You will progress to assessments if your SJT answers score in the higher proportion of those that completed the test. that info comes fairly quickly with SWR normally within a week. Then you will get your assessment dates, day 1 and 2 both at Southampton, again these have been very quick for those applying last year and this. The wait then comes for DMI, and finally MMI - could be up to 14 months to get both done post assessments. The MMI is only allocated once you are earmarked a place on a course.