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Union Pacific GCOR Railroad Signals Quiz

Quick quiz on railroad signal meanings. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Asha SooriaUpdated Aug 23, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
paper art railroad signal test quiz icons flags speed limits track bulletins on golden yellow background

This quiz helps you practice Union Pacific GCOR railroad signals and check how well you read aspects, flags, speed limits, and bulletins. Work through clear questions with instant feedback, then deepen your study with our NORAC signals practice test or sharpen fundamentals with focused signals test practice.

What does a solid green main signal indication authorize a train to do?
Proceed but be prepared to stop
Stop before the signal
Proceed at maximum authorized speed
Proceed at restricted speed
A solid green signal indication allows a train to proceed at the maximum authorized speed as per GCOR Rule 283. This aspect means the track ahead is clear to the next signal. Always verify timetable speed for that territory.
Which flag color indicates track workers are on, under, or between equipment?
Yellow
Green
Blue
Red
A blue flag means the equipment is protected and must not be coupled to or moved. Workers are on, under, or between the equipment. This is defined in GCOR Rule 1.28.
What must a locomotive engineer do when observing a red signal under GCOR rules?
Proceed at restricted speed
Ignore if track is clear
Call dispatcher and ask for permission
Stop before the signal
Under GCOR Rule 289, a red signal indication requires a full stop at or before the signal. Proceeding without authority is a violation. You must then get permission to pass the signal.
What is the meaning of a yellow signal aspect?
Proceed without restrictions
Stop and contact dispatcher
Proceed at maximum speed
Proceed at restricted speed preparing to stop at next signal
A yellow aspect indicates caution and that the next signal is displaying a more restrictive indication. The engineer must be prepared to stop at the next signal. This is covered by GCOR Rule 280.
Which flag color signals a temporary speed restriction on track?
Red with white stripe
Green with yellow stripe
Yellow with black stripe
Blue with white stripe
A yellow flag with a black stripe warns of a temporary speed restriction. Trains must reduce speed according to bulletin instructions. See GCOR Rule 6.27 for details.
What does a flashing yellow signal typically indicate?
Advance approach
Proceed at maximum speed
Stop at station
Inspection required
A flashing yellow usually indicates an advance approach, signaling the next signal is displaying a restricting indication and you must prepare to reduce speed. This is described in GCOR Rule 280 Appendix A.
Under GCOR, what action should an engineer take if a signal is dark or unreadable?
Call dispatcher for instructions
Proceed at restricted speed without stopping
Proceed at maximum speed
Treat as stop signal
A dark or unreadable signal must be treated as a stop indication under GCOR Rule 285. The train must not proceed until proper authority is obtained. This ensures safety when signal visibility is compromised.
Which color flag warns of men or equipment fouling the track?
Green
Blue
Yellow
Red
A red flag means stop and do not proceed, as men or equipment are fouling the track. It indicates immediate danger ahead. This is defined in GCOR Rule 6.21.
What does a green flag signal to an engineer?
Stop at next station
Heavy braking ahead
Slow down gradually
Proceed at normal speed
A green flag authorizes the train to proceed at normal speed under GCOR Rule 6.24. No restrictions are indicated unless specified by bulletin. It confirms track is clear of temporary hazards.
How many aspects does a typical Union Pacific color-light signal have?
Two
Five
Three
Four
Most mainline color-light signals on Union Pacific display three aspects: red, yellow, and green. Each aspect conveys a specific authority level. Some signals have additional combinations, but three is standard.
Under GCOR, what does the term 'restricted speed' mean?
Not exceeding 20 mph and able to stop within half the range of vision
Proceed at track speed but watch for obstructions
Maintain line speed unless restricted by signal
Not exceeding 30 mph under any condition
Restricted speed means not exceeding 20 MPH and being able to stop within half the range of vision as defined in GCOR Rule 5.1. The train must be prepared to stop short of any obstruction. This rule ensures maximum safety.
Which signal aspect indicates 'approach'?
Flashing green
Solid red
Solid yellow
Red over green
A solid yellow aspect is termed 'approach' and requires the engineer to be prepared to stop at the next signal. This is stated in GCOR Rule 280. It warns the next signal may display a stop indication.
What is the purpose of a track bulletin?
List locomotive maintenance tasks
Convey special instructions and track conditions
Announce crew schedules
Record speedometer calibrations
Track bulletins provide crews with special instructions about track conditions, restrictions, and work zones. They are essential for safety and compliance. Bulletins are issued before departure and must be acknowledged.
What does a lunar white signal aspect indicate under GCOR?
Stop and contact dispatcher
Proceed at maximum main track speed
Proceed at restricted speed in yard limits
Derail devices ahead
A lunar white aspect authorizes movement at restricted speed within yard limits. It is used to regulate low-speed movements. This is defined in GCOR Rule 282.
In dark territory, how is train movement authority typically conveyed?
Automated block signals
Coded track circuits
Track warrants
Signal indications
Dark territory lacks wayside signals, so train movement is governed by track warrants issued via radio or lineside forms under GCOR Rule 105. These warrants provide authority and restrictions. Safety is maintained by strict adherence.
What is an absolute block signal system?
Signal blocks under dispatcher control only
Blocks controlled by onboard computers
Train spacing by timetable only
Movement not allowed past a stop signal without authority
In an absolute block system, no train may enter a block until the block is reported clear and authority is granted. Signals display stop to protect the block under GCOR Rule 283A. This prevents collisions.
How is a temporary slow order communicated to train crews?
Permanent signs
Via track bulletin or oral instruction
Flashing red signals
Green flags only
Temporary slow orders are issued by bulletins or orally by dispatchers as per GCOR Rule 6.36. They specify speed and location limits. This ensures crews are aware of temporary conditions.
What action is required when passing a yellow flag under GCOR rules?
Proceed at restricted speed
Stop immediately
Ignore if train is within yard limits
Slow to required slow order speed
Passing a yellow flag means a slow order is in effect; the train must reduce to the prescribed speed. The flag warns of temporary conditions ahead. This is stated in GCOR Rule 6.27.
Which rule covers handling of defective signals?
Rule 285
Rule 280
Rule 289
Rule 6.21
GCOR Rule 285 covers procedures when a signal is defective or unreadable. The engineer must treat it as a stop signal and get permission to proceed. This protects against signal failures.
Under GCOR, what color lens combination indicates 'approach limited'?
Flashing yellow
Red over yellow
Yellow over green
Green over yellow
'Approach limited' is indicated by yellow over green and authorizes a pilot or limited speed at specified track speed. It's defined in GCOR Rule 280 Appendix A. This warns of more restrictive signals ahead.
What is the required action when entering yard limits without a clear signal?
Stop and contact yardmaster
Proceed at restricted speed
Use whistle signals before moving
Wait for green signal
Within yard limits, movement without a clear signal is permitted at restricted speed under GCOR Rule 92. The train must be able to stop within half the range of vision. This allows efficient yard operations.
Which device protects against uncontrolled movement of equipment when parked on a grade?
Blue flag
Derail
Speed indicator
Hand brakes
Hand brakes are applied to parked equipment to prevent uncontrolled movement as per GCOR Rule 1.29. The number of hand brakes depends on the grade and tonnage. This ensures equipment remains secure.
When must an engineer sound the whistle approaching public grade crossings?
At engineer's discretion
At least 1/4 mile before crossing
Within 100 feet of crossing
Only if vehicles are present
GCOR Rule 8.6 requires sounding the whistle at least a quarter mile before a public grade crossing to warn motorists and pedestrians. This is mandatory except where signs indicate otherwise. Consistent whistle use reduces accidents.
Which signal aspect permits a train to move on diverging route?
Flashing yellow
Yellow over red
Solid green
Green over red
Yellow over red means diverging approach permitting movement onto a diverging track at prescribed speed. It warns the engineer of switch alignment. This is specified in GCOR Rule 280 Appendix A.
Under GCOR, what is the effect of restrictive limits in track bulletin?
Higher speeds authorized temporarily
Movement limited to designated tracks and speeds
Train cannot move until restriction is lifted
Signals are ignored through restrictions
Restrictive limits in a bulletin confine movement to specific tracks under prescribed speed limits. Trains must not enter other tracks without authority. This ensures operations safely navigate work zones.
When does a diverging clear signal aspect apply?
Only for yard movements
When signals are down in both directions
When main route is clear at normal speed
When turnout is lined for diverging route at maximum diverging speed
A diverging clear shows two green lights diagonally and permits movement on a diverging route at authorized diverging speed. It assures engineers the turnout is properly lined. See GCOR Rule 282 Appendix A.
What rule governs the removal of blue flag protection?
Rule 280
Rule 289
Rule 6.24
Rule 1.29
GCOR Rule 1.29 covers the application and removal of blue flag protection. Only the crafts worker or foreman who applied it may remove it. This ensures safety of personnel on equipment.
Which signal aspect indicates 'Restricting'?
Flashing green over red
Solid red
Flashing yellow over red
Steady yellow over red
Restricting is a flashing yellow over red aspect permitting movement at restricted speed, with authority to proceed past signal but prepared to stop within half vision. Defined in GCOR Rule 280 Appendix A. It allows cautious entry into occupied blocks.
In rule 10 territory, what must an engineer do when receiving an oral train order?
Only acknowledge by radio
Call the dispatcher after delivery
Record it in the order book and repeat back
Proceed without documentation
Under GCOR Rule 10, oral train orders must be recorded verbatim in the order book and repeated back to confirm accuracy. This preserves authority and reduces miscommunication. Written confirmation follows.
What is the maximum passenger train speed when diverging on an 8° turnout?
45 mph
15 mph
60 mph
30 mph
An 8° turnout typically limits passenger trains to 15 MPH on diverging routes as per engineering standards. This protects against excessive lateral forces. Always refer to timetable special instructions.
Under GCOR, how must engineers respond to a 'whistle board' sign?
Remain silent unless cars are close
Sound the whistle once long, one short, one long
Sound two short whistles
Sound emergency whistle
A whistle board requires the standard grade-crossing whistle signal: one long, one short, one long, per GCOR Rule 8.6. This alerts roadway users. Compliance reduces crossing collisions.
When is a forward motion test required under GCOR after stopping with air brake applied?
Only if dispatcher orders
Always every station stop
When train stands more than 10 minutes
Never during continuous movement
A forward motion test is required if a train stops more than 10 minutes with brakes applied to ensure they release properly before moving, per GCOR Rule 5.8. This verifies brake continuity. Safety is maintained by regular testing.
What must an engineer do if a switch machine fails to lock in the correct position?
Ignore and continue route
Proceed carefully through switch
Obtain permission to back over switch or hand-align
Call mechanical department only
If a switch fails to lock electrically, GCOR Rule 8.1 requires the engineer to get permission to back over the switch or have it hand-aligned. This prevents derailments. Always follow dispatcher or supervisor instructions.
What does GCOR require when occupying a main track by authority other than signal indication?
Shut off all engines
Keep the horn sounding
Proceed at line speed
Restricted speed unless otherwise instructed
Occupying main track under track warrant or train order requires movement at restricted speed unless the authority specifies another speed, as per GCOR Rule 92. This ensures safe protection.
Which signal feature provides backup in case of lamp failure?
Manual lamp check
Automatic lamp proving
Battery-powered lamp
Reflective lens system
Automatic lamp proving monitors each lamp's functionality and alerts the system upon failure, as required by signal standards. This ensures reliability of signal aspects. It's mandated by AREMA guidelines.
Under restrictive limits, what distance must a crew be able to stop within?
One-quarter mile
Full visibility distance
Twice the braking distance
Half the range of vision
Under GCOR Rule 5.1, restricted speed requires stopping within half the range of vision at any point. This standard applies under restrictive limits as well. It allows safe response to obstructions.
What is the maximum speed for freight trains approaching a plate C clearance track diverging route?
60 mph
30 mph
20 mph
45 mph
For freight trains on a plate C clearance diverging route, maximum speed is generally 30 MPH. This is based on standard turnout and clearance dimensions. Always refer to special instructions in timetables.
Under GCOR Rule 280 Appendix A, which aspect indicates 'Medium Clear'?
Green over yellow
Yellow over green
Lunar white
Flashing green
Medium Clear is indicated by green over yellow and authorizes movement on a medium speed diverging route. It is detailed in GCOR Rule 280 Appendix A. Engineers must observe medium speed limits.
When two signals display conflicting aspects for bi-directional movements, what applies?
Dispatcher instruction overrides
Engineer's discretion
The more restrictive aspect governs
The higher speed aspect governs
Under GCOR, when two aspects conflict, the more restrictive aspect controls to ensure safety. This prevents misinterpretation and protects against hazards. Any conflicting signals must be clarified with the dispatcher.
How does a spring switch affect signal indication under GCOR?
It changes signal aspects to yellow
It clears all signals automatically
It may default signals to stop if not properly lined
It has no effect on signals
Spring switches automatically return to normal position and if not aligned correctly, signals may default to stop to protect movement. Engineers must verify switch alignment before proceeding. GCOR Rule 8.2 covers spring switch operations.
What advanced notice is required for a dispatcher when issuing track warrant for opposing movements?
No special notice required
Specify limits, direction, and method of meeting
Use only written orders
Only specify direction
Dispatchers must clearly specify the track warrant limits, authorized direction, and method of meeting or passing opposing movements per GCOR Rule 99. This prevents conflicting authorities. Clear wording is critical for safety.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Interpret Signal Aspects -

    Learn to recognize and interpret Union Pacific signal test indications according to GCOR railroad standards, ensuring you can identify every aspect in real-world scenarios.

  2. Apply Speed Limit Rules -

    Apply railroad gcor rules for setting and adjusting speed limits under various signal conditions, enhancing safety and compliance on the track.

  3. Identify Flag Signals -

    Identify the meaning of different flag colors and positions used in Union Pacific operations, improving your ability to respond correctly in the field.

  4. Analyze Track Bulletins -

    Analyze and interpret track bulletins and work orders, mastering how to incorporate these critical communications into safe operating procedures.

  5. Evaluate Quiz Performance -

    Evaluate your knowledge with targeted feedback from the 41-question quiz, tracking your progress and pinpointing areas for improvement.

  6. Prepare for Certification -

    Build confidence and readiness for official certification exams by reinforcing core GCOR railroad concepts and signal test strategies.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Core Signal Aspects and Indications -

    Familiarize yourself with the key signal aspects - Stop (red), Approach (yellow), Clear (green), and Restricting (yellow over red) - as defined in the railroad gcor manual. Use the mnemonic SACR ("Stop, Approach, Clear, Restricting") to recall the sequence quickly. Mastery of these indications is foundational for acing a union pacific signal test.

  2. Flagging Rules and Color Codes -

    Review GCOR Railroad rule on flags and lamps: red means stop, blue is work zone protection, green signals proceed, and yellow warns caution. A handy phrase is "RBGY - Red Brakes, Green Yields" to remember order of severity. Consistent color code recognition boosts confidence during any railroad signal test.

  3. Track Bulletin Orders and Mandatory Directives -

    Understand how to interpret and apply track bulletins: note track numbers, limits, and expiration times. Practice reading sample orders - e.g., "Track 2, MP 15 - 20, Restricted Speed 10 mph until 1800 hrs" - to sharpen quick comprehension. Precision with bulletins is critical for regulatory compliance and safety.

  4. Speed Restrictions and Braking Calculations -

    Memorize the basic braking formula v²=2as (velocity squared equals two times deceleration times stopping distance) to calculate safe stopping zones. For instance, at 50 mph on 1.5 ft/s² deceleration, stopping distance ≈ (50×1.467)²/(2×1.5) ≈1,782 ft. Accurate math skills ensure you meet speed limits and avoid signal violations.

  5. Effective Study and Test-Taking Strategies -

    Create a structured review plan using the GCOR manual's table of contents and focus on high-frequency rules (e.g., Rules 6 - 21). Employ the "PQ4R" method - Preview, Question, Read, Reflect, Recite, Review - to maximize retention. Regular practice with mock questions tailored for a railroad signal test builds mastery and reduces test anxiety.

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