Hawaii Railroad Crossing Laws
Hawaii's rail network is tiny, but the statute still binds. A vehicle carrying passengers for hire, a school bus, or a truck hauling explosives or flammable liquids stops within 50 feet, no closer than 15 (HRS 291C-93). If a train sits within 1,500 feet, wait it out. Cross in one gear, no shifting on the tracks. First-offense fine caps at $200 (HRS 291C-161), and a conviction adds the 60-day-plus CDL disqualification (49 CFR 383.51).
How Hawaii handles grade crossings
Hawaii's rail network is tiny, but the statute still binds. A vehicle carrying passengers for hire, a school bus, or a truck hauling explosives or flammable liquids stops within 50 feet, no closer than 15 (HRS 291C-93). If a train sits within 1,500 feet, wait it out. Cross in one gear, no shifting on the tracks. First-offense fine caps at $200 (HRS 291C-161), and a conviction adds the 60-day-plus CDL disqualification (49 CFR 383.51).
Who stops, how far, and the CDL risk
- Who must stop: Placarded + buses
- Stop distance: Within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail (HRS 291C-93). Same as federal 49 CFR 392.10. Do not proceed if a train is approaching within about 1,500 feet.
- Clearance rule: Do not enter unless you can drive completely across without stopping. HRS 291C-93 requires crossing in a gear that needs no change, so no shifting while on the tracks.
- Fine & CDL disqualification: Traffic infraction, up to $200 for a first offense plus district-court assessments (HRS 291C-93; 291C-161). The FMCSA CDL disqualification stacks under 49 CFR 383.51: 60 days first offense, 120 days second within 3 years, 1 year third.
Hawaii Railroad Crossing FAQ
Which trucks must stop at railroad crossings in Hawaii?
How far from the tracks do I stop in Hawaii?
What is the clearance rule at a Hawaii crossing?
What does a railroad crossing violation cost in Hawaii?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol05_Ch0261-0319/HRS0291C/HRS_0291C-0093.htm. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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