FRA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield FRA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Under FRA regulations, what is the maximum number of consecutive hours a freight train engineer may work before a mandatory rest period? → 12 hours
2. Under FRA Part 238, where are automatic fire suppression systems required on newly manufactured passenger cars? → In crew areas and electrical/mechanical equipment compartments
3. Under FRA emergency preparedness rules, railroad employees involved in an accident resulting in injury must complete which form? → FRA Form 6180.55a
4. Which communication tool is primarily used by train crews for operational coordination? → Two-way radios
5. What happens to train braking performance when a significant number of cars have their angle cocks closed (brakes cut out)? → Overall train braking force is reduced, increasing stopping distance
6. What color and shape is the placard required for Division 2.3 (Poisonous Gas) materials? → White diamond with black skull and crossbones
7. Under FRA regulations, how must a dispatcher communicate a track warrant to a train crew? → Verbally over radio with the crew required to write and repeat back all authority limits
8. Which entity is responsible for certifying the laboratories that perform FRA-mandated drug testing? → The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) / SAMHSA
9. What is the function of the locomotive's battery system when the engine is not running? → Provide control power for starting and essential systems
10. What type of FRA drug test must be administered after a train accident that meets reporting thresholds? → Post-accident testing
11. What is the minimum height above the top of the rail that a knuckle coupler must be maintained for standard freight cars? → 31.5 inches
12. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Track & Roadway Safety, what should a FRA professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
13. What safety device prevents a locomotive diesel engine from overspeeding and destroying itself? → Overspeed governor or mechanical fuel cutoff
14. What is the FRA significance of 'positive train identification' in communication protocols? → Confirming a train's identity and location before issuing movement authority
15. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Locomotive Engine Systems, what should a FRA professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
16. Which FRA regulation governs locomotive safety standards, including cab conditions and safety appliances? → 49 CFR Part 229
17. What does 'fouling the track' mean in the context of FRA communication and work zone protection? → Occupying space close enough to a track that a passing train could cause injury or damage
18. What information must appear FIRST on the hazardous materials description line of a shipping paper? → The UN identification number
19. Under FRA regulations, what is the maximum allowable lateral flange wear for a wheel before it must be removed from service? → 1/2 inch
20. If a train is en route and a crew member reaches the Hours of Service limit, what is the railroad's primary obligation under FRA regulations? → Relieve the employee as soon as possible without undue delay
21. When a train derailment involves a hazardous materials release, what is the FIRST action a crew member should take? → Protect themselves and move upwind and uphill from the scene
22. Under FRA rules, which of the following conditions would result in a track being removed from service? → A gage deviation of 1 inch over the allowable limit on any class of track
23. Which FRA Hours of Service provision applies specifically to railroad employees who both operate trains AND perform dispatching duties during the same tour? → The stricter 12-hour limit and associated rest requirements govern the entire period
24. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Signal Systems & Train Control for FRA professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
25. A locomotive's engine oil pressure drops suddenly at full throttle. What is the FIRST action the operator should take? → Reduce throttle and prepare to shut down the engine
26. Under FRA rules, a railroad that requires an employee to deadhead (travel as a passenger to an assignment) must count that deadhead time as: → On-duty time only if it immediately follows an on-duty period
27. Under 49 CFR, which document must accompany a shipment of hazardous materials throughout its rail journey? → Shipping paper or waybill with required hazmat entries
28. What is the purpose of a joint bar in track construction? → To connect two rail ends together and maintain alignment
29. Which component prevents brake pipe air from flowing back toward the locomotive during an emergency application? → Check valve in the emergency reservoir circuit
30. What FRA rule governs the use of cell phones by locomotive engineers while on duty? → Personal cell phone use is prohibited for engineers while operating a locomotive