To operate a locomotive, drivers must be familiar with all the controls and indicators placed at their disposal, in particular those concerning:

• traction,

• braking,

• traffic safety-related elements.

In order to detect and locate anomalies in the rolling stock, report them and determine what is required to repair them, and in certain cases, to take action, drivers must be familiar with:

• mechanical structures,

• suspension and attachment equipment,

• running gear,

• safety equipment,

• fuel tanks, fuel supply system, exhaust equipment,

• the meaning of markings on the inside and outside of the rolling stock, in particular the symbols used for the transportation of dangerous goods,

• trip registration systems,

• electrical and pneumatic systems,

• collection of current and high-voltage systems,

• communication equipment (ground-to-train radio, etc.),

• arrangements of trips,

• the constituent parts of the rolling stock, their purpose, and the devices specific to the hauled stocks, in particular the system of stopping the train by venting the brake pipe,

• braking system,

• the parts specific to traction units,

• traction chain, motors and transmission.