Railroad Crossing Signs
Two signs matter most. The round yellow sign with an X and two Rs warns that a crossing is ahead. The white X-shaped crossbuck marks the crossing itself.
Trains always have the right-of-way. Treat a crossbuck like a yield sign: slow down, look both ways, listen, and stop if a train is coming.
Every railroad crossing sign, and what to do
6 signs · MUTCD codes shown for reference
Railroad Crossing (Crossbuck)MUTCD R15-1
A railroad crossing: trains have the right-of-way. Do: Slow down, look both ways and listen; stop if a train is coming.
Railroad Crossing AheadMUTCD W10-1
A railroad crossing is ahead. Do: Slow down, look and listen, and be ready to stop before the tracks.
Number of Tracks (plaque)MUTCD R15-2P
Placed under the crossbuck: the crossing has more than one track. Do: After one train passes, check again; another train may be coming on a different track.
LookMUTCD R15-8
A reminder at a crossing to check for trains in both directions. Do: Look both ways along the tracks before you cross.
Skewed CrossingMUTCD W10-12
The railroad tracks cross the road at a sharp angle. Do: Slow down and turn your head further to check both directions along the tracks.
Low Ground ClearanceMUTCD W10-5
The crossing is raised enough that low vehicles or trailers can get stuck on it. Do: If your vehicle or trailer sits low, use another route.
Railroad crossing signs quiz
Question 1 of 6Railroad
Which sign means: a railroad crossing is ahead.
Tip: press 1–4 to answer.
Questions people ask
What does a round yellow sign with an X mean?
A railroad crossing is ahead. Slow down, look and listen, and be ready to stop.
What does the crossbuck mean?
It marks the railroad crossing. Yield to trains; stop if one is coming.
Do I have to stop at every railroad crossing?
Not always. You must stop when a train is coming, when lights flash or gates are down, or when a Stop sign is posted. Some vehicles, such as school buses, must stop at every crossing.