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.

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 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 Exam Flashcards
Flip the cards to test your knowledge of key GCOR rules and terms.
๐ฆWhat 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 RULES๐ตWhat 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 SAFETY๐จWhat 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.
โ ๏ธWhat 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 RULES๐A 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 SIGNALS๐ 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.
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.
Foundational rules covering employee responsibilities, safety, and definitions of key railroad terminology.
- Topics: Rule 1.0 - 2.0 Series
- Questions: Approx. 15-20
Covers the aspects and indications of block and interlocking signals, which are critical for safe movement.
- Topics: Rule 5.0 - 5.15 Series
- Questions: Approx. 25-30
The largest section, detailing rules for train speed, authority for movement, and procedures in various territories.
- Topics: Rule 6.0 Series
- Questions: Approx. 30-40
Specific rules for operating in Track Warrant Control (TWC) or Direct Traffic Control (DTC) territory.
- Topics: Rule 10.0 and 14.0 Series
- Questions: Approx. 15-20
Procedures for conducting various air brake tests to ensure the train's braking system is functioning correctly.
- Topics: Air Brake Rules Section
- Questions: Approx. 10-15
Rules governing the proper use of radio communication, including required identifications and emergency broadcasts.
- Topics: Rule 3.0 Series
- Questions: Approx. 5-10
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
105 out of 150 correct
70%
Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)
GCOR Certified Railroad Employee Salary
$78,500
Median Annual Salary
How to Get GCOR Certified
Becoming GCOR certified is a structured process managed entirely by your railroad employer. Hereโs a step-by-step look at the typical journey from new hire to qualified railroad professional.
Get Hired
Pass
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.
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.

Official GCOR and Railroad Resources
While your employer is your primary source for GCOR materials, these organizations provide regulatory oversight and industry leadership.
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.
GCOR
Committee Rulemaking Body
Website: gcor.com
Services: The official body that publishes and revises the GCOR rule book.
Contact: Primarily serves member railroads.
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.
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
Frequency Every
2-3 Years
Method Classroom
& Exam
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
ASE Master Technician & Automotive Certification Trainer
Universal Technical InstituteTony 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.