Exam Questions And Correct Answers

FRA Certified Locomotive Engineer Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary responsibility of a locomotive engineer?
• Maintain mechanical components of the train
• Operate the locomotive safely and in compliance with regulations
• Inspect track conditions daily
• Oversee ticketing procedures

Rationale: The engineer’s main duty is to safely operate trains in

accordance with FRA rules and carrier policies.

• When must an engineer perform a brake test?
• At the start of every shift
• Before the first trip or whenever consist changes
• Only when requested by the conductor
• Every 100 miles 1 / 4

Rationale: FRA regulations require brake tests before departure and after

any consist modification to verify functionality.

• What is the maximum authorized speed for a train determined by?
• Engineer discretion
• Dispatch approval
• The track’s class and signal system
• Weather conditions

Rationale: FRA Part 213 defines maximum speeds based on track

classification and signal protection systems.

• Which document must always be in the locomotive cab?
• Employee time slip
• Yard assignment log
• Current timetable and special instructions
• Work order summary

Rationale: The timetable and special instructions contain vital operational

limits and authority rules.

5. If a signal aspect is not clearly visible, the engineer must:

• Treat it as the most restrictive indication
• Proceed at authorized speed 2 / 4

• Stop and call dispatcher only
• Wait for a following train

Rationale: Safety rules require assuming the most restrictive indication

when a signal cannot be identified.

• When approaching a public grade crossing, what must the engineer do?
• Sound horn continuously
• Sound horn in prescribed pattern before crossing
• Dim headlight
• Reduce speed to 10 mph

Rationale: FRA 49 CFR Part 222 specifies the horn sequence for public

crossings.

• What color flag indicates a stop signal?
• Yellow
• Green
• Red
• Blue

Rationale: Red universally indicates stop in railroad signaling.

• Which of the following requires immediate report to the dispatcher?
• A headlight failure 3 / 4

• Emergency brake application
• Speedometer error
• Excessive wheel slip

Rationale: Emergency brake use indicates a potential safety event that

must be reported immediately.

• What is the function of dynamic braking?
• Apply friction brakes
• Use traction motors as generators to slow the train
• Increase tractive effort
• Charge the main reservoir

Rationale: Dynamic braking converts kinetic energy to electrical resistance

for controlled deceleration.

• What must an engineer do before moving a locomotive coupled to cars?
• Sound the horn twice
• Ensure air brake continuity test is complete
• Wait for signal from yardmaster
• Verify consist weight

Rationale: The continuity test ensures the brake pipe is charged and

operational throughout the train.

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