Railroad Signal Test Prep

Here is what has been updated in August: all signal tests for the Amtrak Chicago Sub, everything Amtrak Michigan Sub, everything CN (Route and speed signals), everything NORAC, everything NS, and everything UP.

Basically, everything includes verifying that there were no aspect and/or indication changes, and in the case of CN Route signals, updating the graphics on rules 804 and 805 to include the new aspect lineup as shown in the current CN rule book. Also, all of the headers for each practice exam have been updated to reflect the new governing rule book or special instruction currently in effect, as well as updating the links that point to the new books.

This year, instead of only providing excerpts containing strictly the signal material, I've decided to include the entire book or special instructions for reference. This will ensure that you have access to other relevant material or instructions that relate to the particular signals you are studying.

This should bring everything up to date but if you see something that isn't, please send me a message and I'll get on it!

On the signal indications test, the timetable has omitted the word "speed" in the last couple of printings on the 9.1.13 Limited Clear indication, so the test could read "maximum authorized speed" or just "maximum authorized," which is how it should read because that's how the current timetable reads. Unless they issue an order amending it.

I made a note on the practice exam question which will display after you submit your answer.

See the attachment or follow the link for the UP System Special Instructions Effective July 11, 2023, which includes updates as of August 1, 2024. See Item 19 in the document for UP Block and Interlocking Signals.

UP SSI 07.11.23 (updates as of 08.01.24).pdf

See the attachment or follow the link for the Norfolk Southern Operating Rules, effective April 15, 2023. NS Conrail signals start on page 118. No signal changes noted from the previous rule book.

NS OR 2023.pdf

See the attachment or follow the link for the NORAC Operating Rules Twelfth Edition Effective January 1, 2024. Signals start on page 81. Also see the 12th Edition Transition Guide. No signal changes noted from 11th Edition.

Norac 12th Edition 1-1-2024.pdf
NORAC 12th Transition Guide Final.pdf

See the attachment or follow the link for the CN U.S. Operating Rules No. 15 Effective January 1st, 2024.

CN US_Operating_Rules_No_15.pdf

Speed signals start on page 70. No changes from USOR No. 14 noted.

See the attachment or follow the link for the CN U.S. Operating Rules No 15, Effective January 1, 2024.

CN US_Operating_Rules_No_15.pdf

Route signals start on page 69.

New for USOR 15:

804 Advance Approach - Additional aspect added. There are now seven in total.
805 Approach - Aspect removed. There are now seven in total.

See the attachment or follow the link for the Amtrak Michigan Sub Timetable No. 6, effective June 17, 2024. Signals are on Section 10, pages 1-2. There are no changes from TT No. 5 except the aspect display format has changed with the aspect letter now visible in the timetable.

Amtrak Michigan Subdivision Timetable No. 6 Effective Monday, June 17, 2024.pdf

See the attachment or follow the link for the Amtrak Chicago Sub Timetable No. 6, effective June 17, 2024. Signals are on Section 9, page 1. There are no signal changes from TT No. 5 except the aspect display format has changed with the aspect letter and number (if applicable) now visible in the timetable.

Amtrak Chicago Subdivision Timetable No. 6 Effective Monday, June 17, 2024.pdf

Here is the front and back of an old flash card, part of an index card deck I created when I was in my Amtrak conductor training class in Wilmington, DE.

This particular card was for a NS Conrail signal. I would draw the signal on the front side and the signal name and rule number on the back.

You just needed red, yellow, green, and black Fine Point Sharpies to create them along with blank 3 x 5 index cards. These flash cards are what inspired this website LOL.