GCOR Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the GCOR exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 GCOR Exam Format at a Glance
📚 GCOR Topics to Study (21)
✍️ Sample GCOR Questions & Answers
1. Who is the employee assigned to operate a CTC or interlocking control machine?
Explanation: A control operator is an employee assigned to operate a CTC or interlocking control machine. They are responsible for controlling and monitoring the movement of trains, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the railway system. They have the authority to control signals, switches, and other equipment to maintain the flow of train traffic. Control operators play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and smooth functioning of the railway network.
2. A train receives a track warrant with Box 7 checked: 'Not in effect until after the arrival of Train XYZ at Dover.' What action must the crew take?
A track warrant with Box 7 checked creates a conditional authority. The authority granted by the warrant cannot be used, and the train cannot enter the limits, until the specified train (Train XYZ) has arrived at the designated location (Dover). This is a common method for arranging meets between trains in TWC territory.
3. A train crew is instructed by a Track Bulletin Form B to protect against men and equipment between MP 10 and MP 12. Upon approaching the limits, what is the first required action?
GCOR Rule 15.2, 'Protection by Track Bulletin Form B,' requires that a train must not enter the limits protected by a Form B bulletin until instructed by the employee in charge. A train must stop before the limits unless prior instructions are received.
4. When operating a locomotive with a defective sand system, what restriction applies under GCOR?
A defective sand system reduces wheel-rail adhesion capability, requiring a speed reduction to account for the increased risk of wheel slip or slide.
5. According to GCOR, what must a crew do upon discovering a broken rail?
GCOR requires the crew to stop immediately upon discovering a broken rail, protect both ends of the break, and notify the dispatcher before any other trains approach.
6. When operating on another railroad, unless otherwise instructed, employees will be governed by:
Explanation: When operating on another railroad, employees will be governed by the safety rules, air brake and train handling rules, and the operating rules and timetable/special instructions of the railroad they are employed. All of these answers are correct because when working on another railroad, employees must follow the rules and regulations of that specific railroad in order to ensure safety and proper train operations.