Countdown markers are rectangular white boards with red diagonal bars, set at the roadside in the final yards before a level crossing. Three bars appear first, then two, then one.
They give a clear distance cue on roads where the crossing may be hidden by a bend, a dip or a hedge.
What this sign means
Each bar represents roughly a third of the distance from the first marker to the crossing. Three bars is the furthest away and one bar means the crossing is immediately ahead.
The same countdown principle is used before motorway exits, but the level crossing version uses red bars rather than the blue bars found on motorway signs.
What to do when you see it
Use the markers as your cue to lose speed progressively rather than braking late.
- Begin slowing at the three bar marker.
- Scan for the crossing lights and barriers as the count reduces.
- Be ready to stop by the time you reach the single bar marker.
- Do not overtake between the markers and the crossing.
How this sign is tested
Theory test questions often show the marker and ask what it counts down to, with motorway exit as a tempting wrong answer. The red bars are the giveaway.
Other questions ask about the correct approach speed once the markers appear.
Common mistakes
Confusing red bar level crossing markers with the blue bar countdown markers used on motorway slip roads.
Reading the countdown backwards and assuming one bar means the crossing is still some way off.
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Practise road sign questionsFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between red and blue countdown markers?
Red bars count down to a level crossing. Blue bars count down to a motorway exit.
How far apart are the markers?
They are evenly spaced over the final approach, with the first typically around 90 metres from the crossing on higher speed roads.
Do all level crossings have countdown markers?
No. They are used where the approach speed is high or visibility of the crossing is limited.