Exam Questions And Correct Answers

Track Inspector Certification Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the minimum track gauge for standard gauge track?
• 56 inches
• 56½ inches
• 57 inches
• 55¾ inches

Rationale: Standard gauge in North America is 56½ inches (1435 mm)

measured between the inside faces of the rails.

• What is the purpose of rail anchors?
• To reduce track vibration
• To prevent rail corrosion
• To control longitudinal rail movement (creep)
• To connect rail joints 1 / 4

Rationale: Anchors prevent rail movement due to temperature or braking

forces.

• Which defect is most likely to cause a derailment if undetected?
• Missing spike
• Broken rail
• Loose joint bar
• Cracked tie

Rationale: Broken rails interrupt the running surface and cause wheel drop

or spread gauge.

• How often must Class 3 track be inspected under FRA regulations?
• Once per month
• Once every 14 days
• Twice weekly, with at least one calendar day interval
• Once weekly

Rationale: FRA 49 CFR Part 213.233 requires twice-weekly inspection for

Class 3 track.

• What is the maximum allowable deviation in crosslevel for Class 2 track?
• 1¼ inches
• 1¾ inches
• 2 inches
• 1 inch

Rationale: FRA specifies crosslevel deviation limits by class; for Class 2, it is 1¾ inches. 2 / 4

• Which component connects two rails end-to-end?
• Spike
• Plate
• Joint bar
• Anchor

Rationale: Joint bars secure rail ends to maintain alignment and gauge

continuity.

• What is the correct term for upward deformation of the rail head due to

metal flow?

• Spalling
• Corrugation
• Head checking
• Shelling

Rationale: Head checking is a surface crack from stress and plastic flow of

metal upward.

• What type of defect occurs when rail metal flakes off due to rolling

contact fatigue?

• Corrugation
• Shelling
• Spalling
• Flattening

Rationale: Shelling is subsurface fatigue that causes pieces of metal to

detach from the rail head. 3 / 4

• What is the primary function of ballast?
• To insulate track
• To provide drainage and distribute load
• To hold track alignment and provide support
• To prevent vegetation growth

Rationale: Ballast maintains track geometry and supports load transfer

while aiding drainage.

• What gauge variation is allowed for Class 4 track?
• 56 to 57 inches
• 56 to 57½ inches
• 56½ to 58 inches
• 55½ to 57 inches

Rationale: FRA allows +1 inch variation for Class 4, or up to 57½ inches

maximum.

• What tool is primarily used to measure crosslevel?
• Tape measure
• Track level (spirit level)
• Gauge rod
• Plumb bob

Rationale: Track levels are designed with a bubble vial to measure rail-to-

rail elevation difference.

• Rail wear should be measured where?
• At the base
• / 4