For a safe journey - fitness examination for train drivers (locomotive drivers)

The railroad is the safest means of transportation in Germany, both for passenger and freight transport. The train driver, colloquially known as the engineer, is of particular importance. In order to fulfill their high level of responsibility in everyday working life, they must not only be physically fit, but also mentally strong and have a high level of attention, speed of reaction and communication skills, among other things. For this reason, a medical and psychological fitness examination in accordance with the Train Driver's License Ordinance [in german Triebfahrzeugführerscheinverordnung (TfV)] is mandatory before starting work as a train driver. Thereafter, a medical re-examination is required every three years or annually from the age of 56.

Safety on the tracks - fitness examination for safety guards (SiPo) and safety supervisors (Sakra)

Safety is also a top priority on the tracks. When working on railroad lines, safety marshals [german = Sicherungsposten(SiPo)] and safety supervisors [german = Sicherungsaufsichtskräfte (Sakra)] ensure the necessary safety precautions are taken and adhered to. This requires perfect eyesight and hearing as well as a high sense of responsibility and good judgment. Because in an emergency, they have to make decisions at lightning speed to avert dangers in rail and construction operations. For this reason, regular medical and psychological examinations are also mandatory for safety guards and safety supervisors. After the initial or recruitment examination, a repeat examination is due every five years and every two years from the age of 63.

Play it safe during the suitability test

As a rail transport company, you can trust the qualified and experienced experts at TÜV Hessen. Our company is accredited in accordance with § 16 TfV and registered with the Federal Railway Authority [german = Eisenbahnbundesamt (EBA)]. We will also be happy to carry out the prescribed suitability tests for your company and issue you with the corresponding certificates.

Why you should take the fitness test at TÜV Hessen

  • Fast appointment allocation
  • Represented nationwide
  • Prompt dispatch of the certificate within 7 days
  • Examinations carried out by an accredited company registered with the Federal Railway Authority (EBA)
  • Fitness examination according to recognized scientific standards
  • Legally compliant proof of fitness in accordance with TfV and EBO

How does the aptitude test work?

The medical examination of your employees includes a check of their general physical health, a check of their eyesight and hearing, a urine and blood test and an ECG.

During the psychological examination, safety-related skills such as perception, reaction speed, hand coordination, memory, judgment and cognitive abilities such as attention and concentration are tested. The subsequent psychological interview provides information about personality and attitude factors relevant to the job.  

As an employer, you will then receive an official certificate confirming the fitness of your employees.

Do you have questions about medical fitness examinations for railroad employees? Give us a call or send us an e-mail. We will be happy to help you.

Legal background

The fitness examinations for train drivers are carried out on the basis of Section 5 (1) No. 3 and No. 4 of the Train Driver's License Ordinance [german = Triebfahrzeugführerscheinverordnung (TfV)], Annex 4 and Annex 11 No. 1 TfV.

The fitness examinations for security guards (SiPo) and security supervisors (Sakra) are carried out in accordance with Section 48 of the Railway Construction and Operating Regulations [german = Eisenbahn-Bau- und Betriebsordnung (EBO)] and the guidelines of the Association of German Transport Companies [german = Verbands Deutscher Verkehrsunternehmen (VDV)].


Note: TÜV Technische Überwachung Hessen GmbH accepts no liability whatsoever for the content and statements on external sites. If you have any complaints, please contact the author of the respective page. Thank you for your understanding.

We work sustainably

With our services, we are contributing toward achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. This service supports the goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.

 

Medical report

Various illnesses can impair or eliminate your ability to operate a motor vehicle. Get certainty about your ability to drive with the medical examinations of TÜV Hessen.