The “Point in a Circle” test for machinists: what they check and how to pass it the first time

Test "Point in a circle" - one of the key tests when certifying drivers of locomotives, electric trains and multiple unit rolling stock. This workshop assesses not only technical management skills, but also ability to quickly respond to changing situations, precision maneuvering and compliance with dimensions. Despite its apparent simplicity, the exercise often becomes the reason for retakes: according to Russian Railways statistics, up to 15% of candidates do not pass it the first time due to errors in calculating the trajectory or excessive speed.

In this article we will analyze current requirements for the “Point in a Circle” test in 2026, including changes in testing regulations, common mistakes (with examples from instructors’ practice) and step-by-step training methods. We will pay special attention evaluation criteria, which are often overlooked: for example, recording the time of an exercise or monitoring the position of the controller handle. The material will be useful to both beginners and experienced drivers undergoing periodic certification.

What is the “Point in a Circle” test and why is it needed?

Exercise "Point in a circle" (official name - “Stopping a locomotive (LOCOM) at a given point”) simulates the real situation on the railway tracks, when the driver needs exactly stop the train in a strictly defined place. This is critical for:

• 🚆 Car connections — an error of a few meters can lead to damage to the automatic coupler.
• 🛑 Stops on platforms — inaccurate fixation creates risks for passengers.
• 🔧 Maintenance - for example, when placing a locomotive in a depot.

Unlike other exercises (for example, “Snake” or “Overhead Gate”), here it is not so much control at high speed that is assessed, but smooth braking and sense of size. The test is carried out at a special testing ground with markings or in a depot where the circle is limited by a radius 15–25 meters (depending on the type of rolling stock).

Important: from 2023, changes have been made to the Russian Railways regulations - now the exercise can be performed not only on diesel and electric locomotives, but also on electric trains "Lastochka" and ED4M, which requires adaptation of skills due to differences in braking systems.

Official requirements for the exercise in 2026

Test requirements are regulated By Order of the Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation No. 283 (with the latest amendments from 2026) and internal instructions of Russian Railways. Key parameters of the exercise:

Parameter	Requirement for diesel/electric locomotives	Requirement for electric trains
Circle radius	20 ± 2 meters	15 ± 1 meter
Permissible deviation from point	±0.5 meters	±0.3 meters
Maximum input speed	10 km/h	7 km/h
Lead time	No more than 2 minutes	No more than 1.5 minutes
Number of attempts	2 (on the second mistake - retake)

Particular attention is paid sequences of actions:

1. Driving in a circle at a speed no higher than the speed limit.
2. Smooth braking with fixation at a given point (marked with a cone or paint).
3. Keeping the composition stationary for at least 5 seconds.
4. Leaving the circle without touching the markings.

⚠️ Attention: If the driver exceeded the speed at the entrance to the circle by more than 2 km/h, the exercise is automatically considered not completed, even with an exact stop. This is due to the risk of rolling stock derailing during sudden braking.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Analysis of the protocols of certification commissions shows that 80% errors are associated with three factors: incorrect calculation of the braking distance, ignoring dimensions and psychological stress. Let's look at the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them.

1. Inaccurate stop

Machinists often passing by specified point or stop falling short before her. Reasons:

• 🔄 Late braking - due to the inertia of the composition.
• ⚡ Sudden brake application on electric trains (especially ED4M with rheostatic braking).
• 👀 Incorrect distance estimate - typical for beginners.

🔹 How to fix: Train on the range with visual cues (for example, cones every meter). For electric trains use step braking - first reduce the speed to 3–5 km/h, then bring it to a complete stop.

2. Touching the markings

Occurs more often on diesel locomotives due to broad gauge or when moving along a small radius. A critical mistake is a knocked down cone or hitting the marking line.

🔹 How to fix: Control your position extreme point of the buffer regarding markings. On electric locomotives VL80 and 2ES5K use side mirrors - they give a better overview of the dimensions.

3. Exceeding time

Many drivers delay exercise due to indecisiveness or repeated adjustments. According to the regulations, the delay is more than 30 seconds from the standard leads to a decrease in scores.

🔹 How to fix: Time your workouts. Optimal rhythm: 40 seconds for check-in, 20 seconds for braking and fixation, 30 seconds on departure.

Inspect the brake system|Check the operation of the sandboxes|Make sure the markings are visible|Adjust the mirrors to your height|Check the connection with the instructor-->

Step-by-step instructions: how to perform the exercise perfectly

Algorithm of actions approved by instructors of Russian Railways training centers:

1. Preparation:
   • 📋 Check the pressure in the brake line (standard: 4.8–5.2 kgf/cm²).
   • 🔧 Make sure sandboxes are full (especially important in wet weather).
   • 👓 Adjust the seat and mirrors for optimal visibility.

Round trip:

Start moving on 1st position controller (for diesel locomotives - 3rd position). Entry speed - no more 7–10 km/h. Stay to the right of the center of the circle to leave room for maneuver.

Braking:

Start slowing down 3–4 meters to the stopping point. On electric trains use rheostatic braking (position “T” on the controller), on diesel locomotives - service braking by driver's crane.

Fixation:

After stopping, secure the train parking brake (on electric trains - hold the brake handle in position “5”). Control your time - no less 5 seconds immobility.

Departure:

Move off smoothly, avoiding jerks. When exiting the circle, follow the same trajectory as when entering.

⚠️ Attention: If, when stopping, the train “pecks” (moves jerkily), this is a sign brake system malfunctions or management errors. In this case, the instructor may stop the exercise for safety reasons.

Preparing for the test: tips from instructors

Experienced teachers of training centers (for example, Russian Railways Training Center in Yekaterinburg or Moscow Institute of Transport Engineers) recommend:

1. Simulator training:

   Modern simulators (for example, "Lokomotiv-M" or "Universal-T") simulate the physics of motion with precision 95%. Particularly useful for practicing braking on electric trains, where smoothness is important.

2. Video analysis:

   Record your exercises on video and analyze your trajectory. Pay attention to:

   • 📹 Angle of rotation of the controller handle.
   • 🕒 Reaction time to instructor commands.
   • 📏 Distance from the buffer to the markings.

Physical fitness:

Exercise requires arm endurance (especially when working with a driver’s crane) and concentrations. Useful:

• 💪 Fine motor skills exercises (for example, squeezing an expander).
• 🧘‍♂️ Breathing practices to reduce stress.

🔹 Useful lifehack: If the test is taken in winter, keep in mind that braking distances on snow or ice increase by 20–30%. Train under similar conditions or use sandboxes to improve grip.

What to do if you don't pass the first time?

If the attempt is unsuccessful, the instructor must provide a protocol indicating specific errors. In most cases, a retake is scheduled after 3–7 days. Important:

1. Analyze the video recording (if any).

2. Work out problem areas on the simulator.

3. Check with the instructor which specific criteria were not met (for example, speeding or inaccurate stopping).

In some depots (for example, Moscow or St. Petersburg) there are additional study programs for those who do not pass the test.

Frequently asked questions about the “Point in a Circle” test

Let's look at the questions that drivers most often ask before certification:

Is it possible to use the auto brake while doing the exercise?

Yes, but only in service mode. Full service braking (position “5A” on the driver’s tap) is allowed, but its sudden activation can lead to wheel skidding and inaccurate stopping. By electric train ED4M and Swallow It is recommended to combine an automatic brake with a rheostat brake.

What happens if the train rolls back a little when stopped?

Allowed minor pullback (up to 0.3 meters) - this is not considered an error if the final position falls within the standards (±0.5 m for diesel locomotives). However, if the rollback exceeds the tolerance, the exercise will have to be repeated.

How does the type of locomotive affect the difficulty of the test?

Difficulty varies:

• 🔥 Diesel locomotives (for example, 2TE116 or TEM7) require more precise work with the operator’s crane due to inertia.
• ⚡ Electric locomotives (VL80, 2ES5K) are easier to control, but are sensitive to sudden changes in the controller’s position.
• 🚄 Electric trains (ED4M, Swallow) have a smaller circle radius and more stringent accuracy standards.

Is it possible to appeal the instructor's decision if he did not count the exercise?

Yes, but only if available objective evidence (for example, video recordings of an exact stop). To do this you need:

1. Write an application addressed to the head of the training center.
2. Attach evidence (video, witness statements).
3. Wait for consideration by the commission (up to 5 working days).

In most cases, disputes are resolved in favor of the driver if the instructor’s mistake is obvious.

Conclusion: key points for successful completion

Test "Point in a circle" is a test not only of technical skills, but also psychological stability. Main conclusions:

• 🎯 Accuracy is more important than speed — it’s better to miss the point a little than to miss it.
• ⏱️ Control your time — a delay of more than 30 seconds leads to a retake.
• 🔧 Know the features of your locomotive — braking systems ED4M and VL80 behave differently.
• 📹 Use video analysis - this helps to identify system errors.

If you are preparing for certification, pay special attention practicing braking at low speeds and visual inspection of dimensions. According to statistics, drivers who train on simulators pass the test on the first try. 85% of cases - against 60% those who rely only on practice in the depot.

💡

The most common reason for a retake is speeding at the entrance to the circle. Always keep your speed at 7-10 km/h and start braking early.