California Railroad Crossing Laws
In California you stop if you drive a bus or farm labor vehicle carrying passengers, a school or school-activity bus, or a truck hauling explosives or flammable liquids (CVC 22452). Stop 15 to 50 feet from the rail, look and listen, cross in one gear. A posted EXEMPT sign lifts the stop for hazmat but never for a school bus. Other trucks slow and check (49 CFR 392.11). The ticket runs about $490 plus the CDL disqualification (49 CFR 383.51).
How California handles grade crossings
In California you stop if you drive a bus or farm labor vehicle carrying passengers, a school or school-activity bus, or a truck hauling explosives or flammable liquids (CVC 22452). Stop 15 to 50 feet from the rail, look and listen, cross in one gear. A posted EXEMPT sign lifts the stop for hazmat but never for a school bus. Other trucks slow and check (49 CFR 392.11). The ticket runs about $490 plus the CDL disqualification (49 CFR 383.51).
Who stops, how far, and the CDL risk
- Who must stop: Placarded + buses
- Stop distance: Not less than 15 nor more than 50 feet from the nearest rail (CVC 22452). Same as federal 49 CFR 392.10.
- Clearance rule: Do not follow traffic onto the crossing unless you can clear all tracks without stopping. CVC 22452 bars shifting gears while any part of the vehicle is on the tracks, so choose a gear that finishes the crossing in one pull.
- Fine & CDL disqualification: About $490 with penalty assessments, plus 1 point on your license (CVC 22452). The FMCSA CDL disqualification stacks under 49 CFR 383.51: at least 60 days first offense, 120 days second within 3 years, 1 year third.
California Railroad Crossing FAQ
Which trucks must stop at railroad crossings in California?
How far from the tracks do I stop in California?
What is the clearance rule at a California crossing?
What does a railroad crossing violation cost in California?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=22452.. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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