Unless relieved by the RTC, before reporting clear of Track Authority outside CTC territory into a siding, it must be known that:

• A. The main track switch has been restored to its normal position.
• B. The derail has been locked in place.
• C. The signal shows proceed.
• D. The RTC clearance has been obtained.

Answer: (A)

Before reporting clear of Track Authority into a siding outside CTC territory, the switch has to be restored to its normal position. Restoring the switch to the normal (main-line) position ensures the main track is ready for other trains and that the turnout isn’t left in a position that could misroute traffic or create a hazard once your authority ends. If the switch were left in the siding position, a following train could be directed onto the siding unexpectedly or the main track could be used in an unsafe way.

The other options don’t provide the necessary safety check. Locking a derail isn’t a standard requirement for declaring the track clear, signals may not govern movements outside CTC, and RTC clearance only changes what you must verify if you haven’t been relieved by the RTC.