- Latest available (Revised)
- Point in Time (21/03/2016)
- Original (As made)
Point in time view as at 21/03/2016.
There are currently no known outstanding effects for the The Train Driving Licences and Certificates Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010.
Revised legislation carried on this site may not be fully up to date. At the current time any known changes or effects made by subsequent legislation have been applied to the text of the legislation you are viewing by the editorial team. Please see ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ for details regarding the timescales for which new effects are identified and recorded on this site.
Regulations 4, 8, and 13
1.—(1) General
Drivers must not be suffering from any medical conditions or be taking any medication, drugs or substances which are likely to cause—
a sudden loss of consciousness,
a reduction in attention or concentration,
a loss of balance or coordination,
a significant limitation of mobility.
(2) Vision
The following requirements as regards vision must be complied with—
aided or unaided distance visual acuity: 1,0; minimum of 0,5 for the worse eye,
maximum corrective lenses: hypermetropia + 5/mypopia −8. Derogations are authorised in exceptional cases and after having obtained the opinion of an eye specialist. The recognised doctor then takes the decision,
near and intermediate vision: sufficient, whether aided or unaided,
contact lenses and glasses are authorised when periodically checked by a specialist,
normal colour vision: use of a recognised test, such as Ishihara, as well as another recognised test if required,
field of vision: full,
vision for both eyes: effectiveF1...
binocular vision: effective,
recognition of colour signals: the test must be based on recognition of single colours and not on relative differences,
sensitivity to contrasts: good
no progressive eye disease,
lens implants, keratotomies and keratectomies are allowed only on condition that they are checked on a yearly basis or at intervals set by a recognised doctor,
ability to withstand dazzle,
coloured contact lenses and photochromatic lenses are not allowed. UV filters are allowed.
(3) Hearing and speaking requirements
Sufficient hearing confirmed by an audiogram, i.e.—
hearing good enough to hold a phone conversation and to be able to hear warning sounds and radio messages.
The following values should be taken as guidelines—
the hearing deficiency must not be higher than 40 dB at 500 and 1 000 Hz,
the hearing deficiency must not be higher than 45 dB at 2 000 Hz for the ear with the worst air conduction of sound,
no anomaly of the vestibular system,
no chronic speech disorder (given the necessity to exchange messages loudly and clearly),
the use of hearing aids is allowed in special cases.
(4) Pregnancy
In the event of poor tolerance or a pathological condition, pregnancy must be considered to be a reason for the temporary exclusion of drivers. Legal provisions protecting pregnant drivers must be applied.
Textual Amendments
F1Words in Sch. 1 para. 1(2)(g) omitted (21.3.2016) by virtue of The Train Driving Licences and Certificates (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 (S.R. 2016/73), regs. 1(1), 2(4) (with reg. 3)
Commencement Information
I1Sch. 1 para. 1 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
2.—(1) Medical examinations—
(a)a general medical examination,
(b)examinations of sensory functions (vision, hearing, colour perception),
(c)blood or urine tests, testing among others for diabetes mellitus, insofar as they are necessary to judge the candidate’s physical aptitude,
(d)an Electro-Cardiogram (ECG) at rest,
(e)tests for psychotropic substances such as illicit drugs or psychotropic medication and the abuse of alcohol calling into question the fitness for the job,
(f)cognitive: attention and concentration; memory; perception; reasoning,
(g)communication,
(h)psychomotor: reaction time, hand coordination.
(2) Occupational psychological examinations
The purpose of the occupational psychological examinations is to assist in the appointment and management of staff. In determining the content of the psychological evaluation, the examination must asses that the applicant driver has no established occupational psychological deficiencies, particularly in operational aptitudes or any relevant personality factor, which are likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the duties.
Commencement Information
I2Sch. 1 para. 2 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
3.—(1) Frequency
Medical examinations (physical fitness) must be taken at least every three years up to the age of 55, thereafter every year.
In addition to this frequency, a recognised doctor must increase the frequency of examinations if the health of the member of staff so requires.
Without prejudice to regulation 13 an appropriate medical examination must be carried out when there is reason to doubt that a holder of a train driver’s licence or train driving certificate fulfils the medical requirements set out in paragraph 1.
Physical fitness must be checked regularly and after any occupational accident or any period of absence following an accident involving persons. A recognised doctor can decide to carry out an additional appropriate medical examination, particularly after a period of at least 30 days' sick leave. The employer must ask a recognised doctor to check the physical fitness of the train driver if the employer had to withdraw the driver from service for safety reasons.
(2) Minimum content of the periodic medical examination
If the train driver complies with the criteria required for the examination which is carried out before appointment, the periodic examinations must include as a minimum—
a general medical examination,
an examination of sensory functions (vision, hearing, colour perception),
blood or urine tests to detect diabetes mellitus and other conditions as indicated by the clinical examination,
tests for drugs where clinically indicated.
In addition, an ECG at rest is also required for train drivers over 40 years of age.
Commencement Information
I3Sch. 1 para. 3 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
Regulations 5, 22 and 23
1. The physical characteristics of the train driving licence must be in conformity with ISO standards 7810:2003 and 7816-1:1998(1).
The card must be made of polycarbonate.
The methods for verifying the characteristics of train driving licences to ensure that they are consistent with international standards must comply with ISO standard 10373-1:2006(2).
Commencement Information
I4Sch. 2 para. 1 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
2. The front of the licence must contain—
(a)the words “Train driving licence” printed in large type in English,
(b)the words “United Kingdom”,
(c)the distinguishing sign of the United Kingdom in accordance with the United Kingdom’s code in ISO standards 3166-1:2006(3), printed in negative in a blue rectangle and encircled by 12 yellow stars,
(d)information specific to the licence issued, numbered as follows—
(i)the surname of the holder,
(ii)other name(s) of the holder,
(iii)the date and place of birth of the holder,
(iv)the following details—
the date of issue of the licence,
the date of expiry of the licence,
the words “Department for Regional Development”,
the reference number assigned to the holder by the holder’s employer (optional)
(v)the number of the licence giving access to data in the register referred to in regulation 22,
(vi)a photograph of the holder,
(vii)the signature of the holder,
(viii)the permanent place of residence or postal address of the holder (optional)
(e)the words “[F2European Union] model” in English and the words “Train driving licence” in the other languages of [F2the European Union], printed in yellow to form the background of the licence,
(f)the reference colours—
(i)blue — Pantone Reflex blue
(ii)yellow — Pantone yellow
(g)additional information, or medical restrictions for use imposed by the Department in accordance with Schedule 1, in code form.
The codes shall be decided by the Commission, in accordance with the regulatory procedure referred to in article 32(2) of the Directive and on the basis of a recommendation from the Agency.
Textual Amendments
F2Words in Regulations substituted (22.4.2011) by The Treaty of Lisbon (Changes in Terminology) Order 2011 (S.I. 2011/1043), arts. 2, 3-6
Commencement Information
I5Sch. 2 para. 2 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
3. The certificate must contain—
(a)the surname of the holder,
(b)other name(s) of the holder,
(c)the date and place of birth of the holder,
(d)the date of issue of the certificate,
(e)the date of expiry of the certificate,
(f)the name of the issuing railway undertaking ,
(g)the reference number assigned to the holder by the issuing railway undertaking (optional)
(h)the number of the certificate giving access to data in the register referred to in regulation 23,
(i)a photograph of the holder,
(j)the signature of the holder,
(k)the permanent place of residence or postal address of the holder (optional)
(l)the name and address of the railway undertaking for which the train driver is authorised to drive trains,
(m)the category in which the holder is entitled to drive,
(n)the type of rolling stock which the holder is entitled to drive,
(o)the infrastructures on which the holder is authorised to drive,
(p)any additional information or restrictions,
(q)language skills.
Commencement Information
I6Sch. 2 para. 3 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
4.—(a) Data relating to the licence—
All data appearing on the licence plus data relating to the checking requirements set out in regulations 8 and 13.
(b)Data relating to the certificate—
All data appearing on the certificate plus data relating to the checking requirements set out in regulations 9 and 15.
Commencement Information
I7Sch. 2 para. 4 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
Regulations 8 and 28
Textual Amendments
F3Sch. 3 substituted (21.3.2016) by The Train Driving Licences and Certificates (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 (S.R. 2016/73), regs. 1(1), 2(5), Sch. (with reg. 3)
The objective of the general training is to provide general competence on all aspects that are relevant to the train driver’s profession. The general training will focus on basic knowledge and principles that are applicable independently of the type and nature of rolling stock or infrastructure. Requirements for training for specific rolling stock or infrastructure are specified in Schedules 4 and 5 of these regulations.
The subjects included in the general training are listed below in no particular order of priority.
1. In relation to a driver’s work, the work environment, the driver’s role and responsibility in the process of rail operation, the professional and personal demands of the driver’s duties the driver must—N.I.
(a)have acquired knowledge of the general thrust of legislation and rules applicable to rail operation and safety (requirements and procedures regarding the certification of train drivers, dangerous goods, environmental protection, fire protection, etc.);
(b)understand the specific requirements and professional and personal demands (working mainly on one’s own, shift work over 24 hour cycle, individual protection and security, reading and updating documents, etc.);
(c)understand behaviours which are compatible with safety-critical responsibilities (medication, alcohol, drugs and other psychoactive substances, illness, stress, fatigue, etc.);
(d)be able to identify the reference and operating documents (e.g. rule book, route book, driver’s manual, etc.);
(e)be able to identify the responsibilities and functions of persons involved;
(f)understand the importance of being precise in carrying out duties and in working methods;
(g)understand occupational health and safety (e.g. code of behaviour on and near tracks, code of behaviour for getting on and off the traction unit safely, ergonomics, staff safety rules, personal protective equipment, etc.);
(h)have acquired knowledge of behavioural skills and principles (stress management, extreme situations, etc.); and
(i)have acquired knowledge of the principles of environmental protection (sustainable driving, etc.).
2. In relation to railway technologies, including safety principles behind operational regulations the driver must—N.I.
(a)have acquired knowledge of the principles, regulations and provisions regarding safety in rail operation; and
(b)be able to identify the responsibilities and functions of persons involved.
3. In relation to the basic principles of railway infrastructure the driver must have acquired knowledge of —N.I.
(a)systematic and structural principles and parameters;
(b)the general characteristics of tracks, stations, marshalling yards;
(c)railway structures (bridges, tunnels, points, etc.);
(d)operating modes (single track, double track operation, etc.);
(e)signalling and train control systems;
(f)safety installations (hot-axle box detectors, smoke detectors in tunnels, etc.) and
(g)traction power supply (catenary, third rail, etc.).
4. In relation to the basic principles of operational communication the train driver must—N.I.
(a)have acquired knowledge of the significance of communication and the means and procedures for communicating;
(b)be able to identify persons the driver needs to contact and their role and responsibility (staff of the infrastructure manager, working duties of other train staff, etc.);
(c)be able to identify situations/causes that require communication to be initiated; and
(d)understand communication methods.
5. In relation to trains, their composition and the technical requirements for traction units, wagons, coaches and other rolling stock the driver must—N.I.
(a)have acquired knowledge of the generic types of traction (electric, diesel, steam, etc.);
(b)be able to describe the layout of a vehicle (bogies, bodies, driving cab, protection systems, etc.);
(c)have acquired knowledge of the content and systems of labelling;
(d)have acquired knowledge of the documentation on train composition;
(e)understand braking systems and performance calculation;
(f)be able to identify train speed;
(g)be able to identify maximum load and forces at the coupler; and
(h)have acquired knowledge of the operation and purpose of the train management system.
6. In relation to hazards involved in railway operations in general the driver must—N.I.
(a)understand the principles governing traffic safety;
(b)have acquired knowledge of the risks related to railway operation and the various means to be used to mitigate them;
(c)have acquired knowledge of safety-relevant incidents and understand the required behaviour/reaction; and
(d)have acquired knowledge of the procedures applicable to accidents involving persons (e.g. evacuation).
7. In relation to the basic principles of physics the driver must—N.I.
(a)understand forces at the wheel;
(b)be able to identify factors influencing accelerating and braking performance (weather conditions, braking equipment, reduced adhesion, sanding, etc.); and
(c)understand principles of electricity (circuits, measuring voltage, etc.).]
Regulation 9 and 28
1. Drivers must be able to check and calculate, before departure, that the train’s braking power corresponds to the braking power required for the line, as specified in the vehicle documents.
Commencement Information
I8Sch. 4 para. 1 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
2. Drivers must be able to—
(a)take note of information given to them, such as the speed limits or any signalling changes,
(b)determine the type of running and the limit speed of the train on the basis of the characteristics of the line.
Commencement Information
I9Sch. 4 para. 2 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
3. Drivers must be able to anticipate problems and react appropriately in terms of safety and other performances, such as punctuality and economic aspects. They must therefore have a thorough knowledge of the railway lines and installations on their route and of any alternative routes agreed on.
The following aspects are important—
(a)operational conditions (changes of track, one-way running, etc.),
(b)perform a route check and consult the relevant documents,
(c)identification of tracks that can be used for a given type of running,
(d)the applicable traffic rules and the meaning of the signalling system,
(e)the operations regime,
(f)the block system and associated regulations,
(g)station names and the position, and distance-sighting of stations and signal boxes to adapt driving accordingly,
(h)transition signalling between different operating or power supply systems,
(i)speed limits for the different train categories driven,
(j)topographical profiles,
(k)particular braking conditions, for example on lines with a steep downward gradient,
(l)particular operating features: special signals, signs, departure conditions, etc.
Commencement Information
I10Sch. 4 para. 3 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
4. Drivers must be able to—
(a)start the trains only when all prescribed conditions are fulfilled (timetable, start order or signal, operation of signals if required, etc.),
(b)observe track-side and in-cab signals, interpret them immediately and without error, and act as specified,
(c)run the train safely according to the specific modes of operation: apply special modes if instructed, temporary speed restrictions, running in opposite direction, permission to pass signals at danger, switching operations, turns, running through construction sites, etc.,
(d)respect scheduled or supplementary stops, and if necessary perform supplementary operations for passengers during these stops, notably opening and closing the doors.
Commencement Information
I11Sch. 4 para. 4 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
5. Drivers must be able to—
(a)know the train’s position on the line at all times,
(b)apply the brakes for decelerations and stops, taking account of the rolling stock and installations,
(c)adjust the running of the train in accordance with the timetable and any orders given on saving energy, taking account of the characteristics of the traction unit, the train, the line and the environment.
Commencement Information
I12Sch. 4 para. 5 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
6. Drivers must be able to—
(a)be attentive, insofar as train operation permits, to unusual occurrences concerning the infrastructure and the environment: signals, tracks, energy supply, level crossings, track surrounding, other traffic,
(b)know particular distances to clear obstacles,
(c)inform the infrastructure manager as soon as possible of the place and nature of anomalies observed, making sure that the information has been understood,
(d)taking into account the infrastructure, ensure or take measures to ensure the safety of traffic and persons, whenever necessary.
Commencement Information
I13Sch. 4 para. 6 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
7. Drivers must be able to—
(a)take steps to protect the train and summon assistance in the event of an accident involving persons,
(b)determine where to stop the train in the event of a fire and facilitate the evacuation of passengers, if necessary,
(c)provide useful information on the fire as soon as possible if the fire can not be brought under control by the driver acting alone,
(d)inform the infrastructure of these conditions as soon as possible,
(e)assess whether the infrastructure allows the vehicle to continue to run and under which conditions.
Commencement Information
I14Sch. 4 para. 7 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
8. The language requirements are as follows—
(1) Drivers who have to communicate with the infrastructure manager on critical safety issues must have language skills in the language indicated by the infrastructure manager concerned. Their language skills must be such that they can communicate actively and effectively in routine, adverse and emergency situations.
(2) They must be able to use the messages and communication method specified in the Annex to Commission Decision 2012/757/EU concerning the technical specification for interoperability relating to the “operation and traffic management” subsystem of the rail system in the European Union and amending decision 2007/757/EC.
(3) Drivers must be able to understand (both listening and reading) and to communicate (both speaking and writing) according to level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) established by the Council of Europe.]
Textual Amendments
F4Sch. 4 para. 8 substituted (21.3.2016) by The Train Driving Licences and Certificates (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 (S.R. 2016/73), regs. 1(1), 2(6) (with reg. 3)
Regulation 9 and 28
After completing specific training in relation to rolling stock, drivers must be able to carry out the following tasks—
1. Drivers must be able to—
(a)collect the documentation and the necessary equipment,
(b)check the capacities of the traction unit,
(c)check the information entered in the documents on board the traction unit,
(d)ensure, by performing the checks and tests specified, that the traction unit is capable of providing the required traction power, and that the safety equipment is operating,
(e)checking the availability and functionality of the prescribed protection and safety equipments at the handover of a locomotive or at the start of a trip,
(f)perform any routine preventative maintenance operations.
Commencement Information
I15Sch. 5 para. 1 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
2. To operate a locomotive, drivers must be familiar with all the controls and indicators placed at their disposal, in particular those concerning—
(a)traction,
(b)braking,
(c)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—
(a)mechanical structures,
(b)suspension and attachment equipment,
(c)running gear,
(d)safety equipment,
(e)fuel tanks, fuel supply systems, exhaust equipment,
(f)the meaning of markings on the inside and outside of the rolling stock, in particular the symbols used for the transportation of dangerous goods,
(g)trip registration systems,
(h)electrical and pneumatic systems,
(i)collection of current and high-voltage systems,
(j)communication equipment (ground-to-train radio, etc),
(k)arrangement of trips,
(l)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,
(m)braking system,
(n)the parts specific to traction units,
(o)traction chain, motors and transmission.
Commencement Information
I16Sch. 5 para. 2 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
3. Drivers must be able to—
(a)check and calculate, before departure, that the train’s braking power corresponds to the braking power required for the line, as specified in the vehicle documents,
(b)check the functioning of the various components of the braking system of the traction unit and of the train, as appropriate, before departure, at start-up and during running.
Commencement Information
I17Sch. 5 para. 3 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
4. Drivers must be able to—
(a)take note of information given to them before departure,
(b)determine the type of running and the limit speed of the train on the basis of variables such as speed limits, weather conditions or any signalling changes.
Commencement Information
I18Sch. 5 para. 4 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
5. Drivers must be able to—
(a)use all available control systems in accordance with the applicable rules,
(b)start the train taking account of adhesion and power constraints,
(c)apply the brakes for decelerations and stops, taking account of the rolling stock and installations.
Commencement Information
I19Sch. 5 para. 5 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
6. Drivers must—
(a)be able to be attentive to unusual occurrences concerning the behaviour of the train,
(b)be able to inspect the train and identify signs of anomalies, distinguish between them, react according to their relative importance and try to remedy them, always giving priority to the safety of rail traffic and persons,
(c)know the available means of protection and communication.
Commencement Information
I20Sch. 5 para. 6 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
7. Drivers must—
(a)be able to take steps to protect the train and summon assistance in the event of an accident involving persons on board the train,
(b)be able to determine whether the train is transporting dangerous goods and identify them on the basis of train documents and wagon lists,
(c)know the procedures relating to the evacuation of a train in case of emergency.
Commencement Information
I21Sch. 5 para. 7 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
8. After an incident, drivers must be able to assess whether the vehicle can continue to run and under what conditions, so as to inform the infrastructure manager of those conditions as soon as possible,
Drivers must be able to determine if an expert evaluation is necessary before the train can continue.
Commencement Information
I22Sch. 5 para. 8 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
9. Drivers must be able to take measures to ensure that the train, or parts thereof, does not start up or move unexpectedly, even in the most difficult conditions.
Furthermore, drivers must have knowledge about measures which can stop a train or parts thereof in case it has started to move unexpectedly.
Commencement Information
I23Sch. 5 para. 9 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
Regulation 15
Commencement Information
I24Sch. 6 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
The frequency of the periodic checks shall be as follows—
(a)linguistic knowledge (only for non-native speakers): every three years or after any absence of more than one year,
(b)infrastructure knowledge (including route and operation rules knowledge): every three years or after any absence of more than one year on the relevant route,
(c)knowledge of rolling stock: every three years.
Regulation 28
Commencement Information
I25Sch. 7 in force at 31.12.2010, see reg. 41(5)
There must be a good balance between theoretical training (classroom and demonstrations) and practical training (on-the-job experience, driving with supervision and driving without supervision on tracks which are closed off for training purposes).
Computer-aided training must be accepted for individual learning of the operational rules, signalling situations, etc.
The use of simulators, although not obligatory, may be useful for the effective training of drivers; they are particularly useful for training in abnormal working conditions or for rules infrequently applied. They have a particular advantage in their ability to provide learning-by-doing capability for events that cannot be trained in the real world. In principle, simulators of the latest generation must be used.
Concerning the acquisition of route knowledge, the approach to be favoured must be where the train driver accompanies another driver for an appropriate number of journeys along the route, in daylight as well as at night. Videos of the routes as seen from the driver’s cab may be used, among other methods, as an alternative training method.
Textual Amendments
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ISO standards are published in Geneva by the International Organisation for Standardisation. ISO standard 7810:2003 — identification cards — physical characteristics — edition 3 was published on 31 October 2003 and 7816-1:1998 — identification cards — integrated circuit(s) cards with contacts — Part 1 — physical characteristics — edition 1 was published on 8 October 1998.
ISO standard 10373-1:2006 — identification cards — test methods — Part 1 — General Characteristics — edition 2 was published on 26 April 2006.
ISO standard 3166-1:2006 — codes for the representation of names of countries and their subdivisions — Part 1 — country codes — edition 2 was published on 20 November 2006.
Latest Available (revised):The latest available updated version of the legislation incorporating changes made by subsequent legislation and applied by our editorial team. Changes we have not yet applied to the text, can be found in the ‘Changes to Legislation’ area.
Original (As Enacted or Made): The original version of the legislation as it stood when it was enacted or made. No changes have been applied to the text.
Point in Time: This becomes available after navigating to view revised legislation as it stood at a certain point in time via Advanced Features > Show Timeline of Changes or via a point in time advanced search.
Geographical Extent: Indicates the geographical area that this provision applies to. For further information see ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.
Show Timeline of Changes: See how this legislation has or could change over time. Turning this feature on will show extra navigation options to go to these specific points in time. Return to the latest available version by using the controls above in the What Version box.
Access essential accompanying documents and information for this legislation item from this tab. Dependent on the legislation item being viewed this may include:
This timeline shows the different points in time where a change occurred. The dates will coincide with the earliest date on which the change (e.g an insertion, a repeal or a substitution) that was applied came into force. The first date in the timeline will usually be the earliest date when the provision came into force. In some cases the first date is 01/02/1991 (or for Northern Ireland legislation 01/01/2006). This date is our basedate. No versions before this date are available. For further information see the Editorial Practice Guide and Glossary under Help.
Use this menu to access essential accompanying documents and information for this legislation item. Dependent on the legislation item being viewed this may include:
Click 'View More' or select 'More Resources' tab for additional information including: