GCOR (General Code of Operating Rules) Test

Prepare for the GCOR exam with our free railroad operating rules practice test. Covers signal indications, track authority, train handling, switching.

GCOR (General Code of Operating Rules) Test
๐Ÿ“100-150Questions
โฑ๏ธVariesTime Limit
โœ…85%+Passing Score
๐Ÿ’ต$0Employer Paid
๐Ÿ“ŠPass/FailScoring
๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธMultiple ChoiceFormat
๐Ÿ”„AllowedRetakes
๐ŸขRailroad FacilitiesCenters
๐Ÿ“U.S. NationalBased
๐ŸŽ“CertificationLicensure
๐Ÿ’ปMixedComputer/Paper
๐Ÿ“‹NoneDegree Required

The GCOR is the standard rulebook used by most major U.S. railroads west of the Mississippi River, including BNSF and Union Pacific. Mastering these regulations is non-negotiable for employment and safety. Transportation and safety professionals may also benefit from our G60 torch use certification practice test.

GCOR (General Code of Operating Rules) Test - General Code of Operating Rules preparation guide

GCOR Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

GCOR Railroad Operations

GCOR Exam Questions covering Railroad Operations. Master GCOR Test concepts for certification prep.

GCOR Safety Rules and Procedures

Free GCOR Practice Test featuring Safety Rules and Procedures. Improve your GCOR Exam score with mock test prep.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Eme...

GCOR Mock Exam on GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Emergency Procedures and Incident Response. GCOR Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Tra...

GCOR Test Prep for GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Train Handling and Speed Restrictions. Practice GCOR Quiz questions and boost your score.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Aut...

GCOR Questions and Answers on - General Code of Operating Rules Authorities for Movement. Free GCOR practice for exam readiness.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Blo...

GCOR Mock Test covering - General Code of Operating Rules Block System and CTC Rules. Online GCOR Test practice with instant feedback.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Gen...

Free GCOR Quiz on - General Code of Operating Rules General Responsibilities and Safety. GCOR Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Han...

GCOR Practice Questions for - General Code of Operating Rules Handling Switches and Derails. Build confidence for your GCOR certification exam.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Pro...

GCOR Test Online for - General Code of Operating Rules Protection of Roadway Workers. Free practice with instant results and feedback.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Rad...

GCOR Study Material on - General Code of Operating Rules Radio and Communication Procedures. Prepare effectively with real exam-style questions.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Sec...

Free GCOR Test covering - General Code of Operating Rules Securing Unattended Equipment. Practice and track your GCOR exam readiness.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Sig...

GCOR Exam Questions covering - General Code of Operating Rules Signals and Their Indications. Master GCOR Test concepts for certification prep.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Swi...

Free GCOR Practice Test featuring - General Code of Operating Rules Switching and Terminal Operations. Improve your GCOR Exam score with mock test prep.

GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Tra...

GCOR Mock Exam on - General Code of Operating Rules Track Warrant Control (TWC). GCOR Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

GCOR Exam Flashcards

Flip the cards to test your knowledge of key GCOR rules and terms.

๐ŸšฆWhat is "Restricted Speed" under GCOR rules?

A speed that allows stopping within half the range of vision, short of any train, obstruction, or switch not properly lined, and not exceeding 20 MPH.

REVIEW GCOR RULES

๐Ÿ”ตWhat does a blue signal signify on a track?

It signifies that workers are on, under, or between rolling equipment and that the equipment must not be moved or coupled to.

PRACTICE GCOR SAFETY

๐ŸŸจWhat is the main purpose of a "Track Warrant Control" (TWC)?

To authorize train movements on main tracks in non-signaled territory, providing authority limits and instructions from the train dispatcher.

โš ๏ธWhat are the three points of contact that must be maintained when mounting or dismounting equipment?

Always maintaining contact with two hands and one foot, or one hand and two feet, to prevent falls and ensure stability.

REVIEW GCOR SAFETY RULES

๐Ÿ›‘A red flag or light displayed between the rails of a track indicates what?

It indicates that the track is out of service and must not be passed. It's a stop signal that requires permission from the employee in charge to proceed.

PRACTICE GCOR SIGNALS

๐Ÿ“…What is a "Job Briefing" according to GCOR?

A communication between crew members before starting any task to discuss the plan, potential hazards, and safety precautions.

GCOR Study Guide

Our comprehensive GCOR Study Guide breaks down the essential rules into manageable topics. Use these tables to review key information about the GCOR test, registration, and scoring procedures to ensure you are fully prepared.

What is the GCOR?
The General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR) is a set of standardized rules for railroad operations to ensure safety and efficiency. It is used by most major railroads in the western United States.
Who needs GCOR Certification?
All employees involved in the movement of trains, including conductors, engineers, dispatchers, and yardmasters, must be GCOR certified and recertified regularly.
Which GCOR edition is current?
The GCOR 8th Edition is the most current version. However, railroads may operate under slightly different versions, so always confirm with your employer. Previous versions like the GCOR 7th Edition are still referenced.
Why is the GCOR test important?
Passing the GCOR test is a condition of employment for operational railroad roles. It demonstrates your understanding of critical safety rules required to prevent accidents and ensure smooth railroad operations.

GCOR Test Content and Structure

The GCOR test is structured to cover the entire rulebook. Each railroad may emphasize different sections, but the core topics remain consistent. Below is a breakdown of the key areas you will be tested on during your GCOR Training.

๐Ÿ“œGeneral Rules & Definitions15%

Foundational rules covering employee responsibilities, safety, and definitions of key railroad terminology.

SafetyDefinitionsDutiesConduct
  • Topics: Rule 1.0 - 2.0 Series
  • Questions: Approx. 15-20
๐ŸšฆSignals and Their Use25%

Covers the aspects and indications of block and interlocking signals, which are critical for safe movement.

BlockSignalsCabSignalsSignalAspects
  • Topics: Rule 5.0 - 5.15 Series
  • Questions: Approx. 25-30
๐Ÿš‚Movement of Trains and Engines30%

The largest section, detailing rules for train speed, authority for movement, and procedures in various territories.

MainTrackSpeedSwitchesProtection
  • Topics: Rule 6.0 Series
  • Questions: Approx. 30-40
๐Ÿ“กRules Applicable in TWC/DTC15%

Specific rules for operating in Track Warrant Control (TWC) or Direct Traffic Control (DTC) territory.

TrackWarrantsDispatcherAuthorityReporting
  • Topics: Rule 10.0 and 14.0 Series
  • Questions: Approx. 15-20
๐Ÿ’จAir Brake Tests10%

Procedures for conducting various air brake tests to ensure the train's braking system is functioning correctly.

ClassTestLeakageInspectionsApplication
  • Topics: Air Brake Rules Section
  • Questions: Approx. 10-15
๐Ÿ“ปCommunication Procedures5%

Rules governing the proper use of radio communication, including required identifications and emergency broadcasts.

RadioUseEmergencyCallsIdentificationClarity
  • Topics: Rule 3.0 Series
  • Questions: Approx. 5-10
๐Ÿ’ก Study Tip

Focus on understanding the "why" behind each rule, not just memorizing the number. The GCOR test often uses situational questions that require you to apply the correct rule.

GCOR Practice Test Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correctโœ“PASS

GCOR Certified Railroad Employee Salary

๐Ÿ’ฐ

$78,500

Median Annual Salary

๐Ÿ”ฐTrainee
$45,000 - $55,000
$3,750 - $4,580/moFirst 4-6 Months
๐ŸŽ“Newly Certified
$60,000 - $72,000
$5,000 - $6,000/mo0-2 Years
๐Ÿ“ˆMid-Career
$75,000 - $90,000
$6,250 - $7,500/mo3-9 Years
โญSenior Level
$95,000 - $115,000+
$7,900 - $9,580+/mo10+ Years
๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸซEngineer/Manager
$110,000 - $140,000+
$9,160 - $11,660+/moAdvanced Career

How to Get GCOR Certified

Becoming GCOR certified is a structured process managed entirely by your railroad employer. Hereโ€™s a step-by-step look at the typical journey from new hire to qualified railroad professional.

โœ…
Week 1

Get Hired

Apply for and be hired by a railroad (e.g., BNSF, Union Pacific) for a trainee position.
โœ๏ธ
Week 7

Pass

Undergo initial company orientation and basic safety training.

GCOR Certification Costs

One of the major benefits of a railroad career is that the company invests in you. The costs associated with obtaining your GCOR certification are typically covered entirely by your employer.

๐Ÿ“š$0Training Program Railroads provide intensive, paid training programs.
โœ๏ธ$0Exam Fee The cost of the GCOR test itself is covered by the employer.
๐Ÿ“–$0Rule Books & Materials All necessary study materials, including the official GCOR rule book, are provided.

Your primary investment is your time and commitment to studying. The railroad covers the financial costs, viewing your GCOR training as an investment in a safe and competent employee. Transportation and safety professionals may also benefit from our G60 torch use certification practice test.

Gcor Test - General Code of Operating Rules study guide

Official GCOR and Railroad Resources

While your employer is your primary source for GCOR materials, these organizations provide regulatory oversight and industry leadership.

๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)U.S.

Government Regulator

Website: railroads.dot.gov

Services: Sets and enforces federal rail safety regulations in the United States.

Contact: Online resources and regional offices.

๐ŸŒ

GCOR

Committee Rulemaking Body

Website: gcor.com

Services: The official body that publishes and revises the GCOR rule book.

Contact: Primarily serves member railroads.

๐Ÿš†

BNSF Railway Class I

Railroad

Website: bnsf.com/careers

Services: Major employer of GCOR-certified personnel. Provides BNSF GCOR training.

Contact: Via their official careers portal.

๐Ÿ›ค๏ธ

Union Pacific Railroad Class I

Railroad

Website: up.jobs

Services: Another primary employer that uses the GCOR and provides training.

Contact: Via their official jobs website.

GCOR Exam Day Checklist

Ready to Pass Your GCOR Test?

Start preparing today with our free, comprehensive GCOR practice questions and study materials. Build the confidence and knowledge you need to launch your railroad career.

GCOR Renewal and Recertification

๐Ÿ”„

Frequency Every

2-3 Years

๐Ÿ“š

Method Classroom

& Exam

๐Ÿ’ฏ

Passing Score

85% or Higher

Recertification is managed by your employer and is a mandatory part of maintaining your qualification. It ensures that every crew member is up-to-date on the latest operating rules and safety procedures.

GCOR Questions and Answers

About the Author

Tony GarzaASE Master Technician, BS Automotive Technology

ASE Master Technician & Automotive Certification Trainer

Universal Technical Institute

Tony Garza is an ASE Master Technician certified across all eight automotive service areas, with a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology from Universal Technical Institute. He has 22 years of shop experience and 9 years teaching ASE certification prep courses. Tony specializes in engine performance, electrical systems, and transmission diagnostics for certification candidates.