Some user worked crossings on quiet lanes and farm accesses have a pair of miniature lights instead of full sized signals. A green lamp means no train is approaching, a red lamp means one is.
The lights are small but their meaning is absolute, and the theory test expects you to know the sequence.
What this sign means
Green means you may open the gates and cross. Red means a train is coming and you must not open the gates or start to cross.
The green light does not guarantee time for a slow vehicle. If your vehicle is long, low or slow you must still telephone the signaller before crossing.
What to do when you see it
Check the lamp before you touch the gates, and again before you drive on.
- Wait for a steady green before opening the gates.
- Open both gates fully before driving on.
- Cross without stopping, then close the gates behind you.
- Stop and wait if the light changes to red at any point before you enter the crossing.
How this sign is tested
Questions ask what a green miniature light permits and what you must do first if the light is red.
There are also questions about closing the gates after use, which is a legal requirement at user worked crossings.
Common mistakes
Leaving the gates open after crossing, which puts the next road user and the railway at risk.
Assuming a green light gives unlimited time. It shows only that no train is currently approaching.
Test yourself on this one
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Practise road sign questionsFrequently asked questions
What does a green miniature warning light mean?
No train is approaching, so you may open the gates and cross without delay.
Must I close the gates behind me?
Yes, unless a sign at the crossing tells you otherwise.
When should I use the telephone at this type of crossing?
If your vehicle is slow, long, low or wide, or if anything goes wrong on the crossing.