Railroad Crossing Sign — Meaning

By DMV Master Editorial Team Updated April 28, 2026 Also: Railroad Crossbuck, Railroad Crossing Ahead

Category: Warning
Shape: X-shaped (Crossbuck)
Colors: White, Black, Red
Text: RAILROAD CROSSING
MUTCD Code: R15-1

What does the Railroad Crossing Sign mean?

The Railroad Crossing sign is the white "crossbuck" — an X-shaped sign with "RAILROAD CROSSING" lettering, located AT the rail crossing itself. A round yellow Railroad Crossing Ahead warning sign (W10-1) precedes it on the road. Both indicate where train tracks cross the road.

What to do when you see this sign

1
Slow down well before the crossing
2
Look both directions for approaching trains
3
Listen for train horns or bells
4
Stop completely if the warning lights flash, the gate is down, or a train is approaching
5
Never stop ON the tracks for any reason
6
Wait until the gate fully rises before crossing

Where you'll see it

At every public road crossing of railroad tracks
Near industrial areas with rail spurs
In rural areas where rail and road intersect
On streets with active commuter, freight, or light-rail lines

Test trap: don't get caught by this

NEVER drive around a closed crossing gate, even if you cannot see a train. Every year, hundreds of drivers are killed thinking they could "beat the train." Trains take a mile or more to stop.

Practice questions about the Railroad Crossing Sign

Test your knowledge with real DMV-style questions, each with the correct answer and explanation.

What does a railroad crossbuck sign indicate?

View answer & explanation

Which statement about sign shapes is NOT correct?

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What shape is a railroad crossing sign?

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Which statement about sign shapes is NOT correct?

View answer & explanation

Which statement about sign shapes is NOT correct?

View answer & explanation

In New Hampshire, which statement about sign shapes is NOT correct?

View answer & explanation

States that test this sign

The Railroad Crossing Sign appears in DMV practice tests for 50 states. Click any state to see its full DMV practice page.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if my car stalls on railroad tracks?

Get everyone out of the car immediately and away from the tracks (run TOWARD any approaching train at a 45-degree angle to avoid debris). Then call 911 and the railroad emergency number posted on the signal box.

Are all railroad crossings marked?

No — some private or rural crossings have no signs at all. State law generally requires drivers to slow down and look both directions at any rail crossing.

Why are train horns so loud?

Federal law requires train horns to be audible at least 1/4 mile in advance of crossings. The horn pattern (long-long-short-long) signals approaching trains.