← Road works, level crossings and tramways
Rule 296: User-operated gates or barriers
Legal requirement — says MUST
Level crossings (rules 291 to 299)
User-operated gates or barriers. Some crossings have ‘Stop’ signs and small red and green lights. You MUST NOT cross when the red light is showing, only cross if the green light is on. If crossing with a vehicle, you should
- open the gates or barriers on both sides of the crossing
- check that the green light is still on and cross quickly
- close the gates or barriers when you are clear of the crossing.
Laws TWA 1992 sect 55 & PC(SB)R 1996
Why the capitals matter. The Highway Code writes a rule in capitals — MUST or MUST NOT — when it is backed by law, so breaking it is a criminal offence. The rules that do not use capitals are advice.
5 theory test questions on this rule
From the DVSA revision question bank. These are not the questions asked in the real theory test. Each one shows the answer, the explanation, and our own note on why every other option is not it.
Car
Lorry & Bus (LGV/PCV)
- You've stopped at a pelican crossing. What should you do if the lights have changed to green but a disabled person is still crossing? Other road users
- You're approaching a red light at a puffin crossing. Pedestrians are on the crossing. How long will the red light stay on? Road and traffic signs
- You're driving a vehicle that's over 17 metres (55 feet) long. What should you do at a level crossing? Vehicle weights and dimensions