FTA-sponsored transit training courses present recommendations and current thinking about effective safety, security, and emergency preparedness strategies. The Office of Safety and Security supports course development and training through classroom training, seminars and workshops, and supporting resources, guides and standards. Courses are conducted nationally, primarily by the National Transit Institute, Transportation Safety Institute, Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, Johns Hopkins University, and the Transportation Cooperative Research Program. Key topic areas include: State Safety Oversight, Transit Bus Safety/Security, Drug and Alcohol Compliance, Fatigue Management, Transit Worker Safety and many others. New offerings become available frequently, so visit often to see the most updated list of offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

If a course does not have a scheduled date, can we inquire as to having the course be taught at our location?

Yes.  You would speak with provider to arrange, provide venue, and be willing to accept registrants from your area that are outside your agency.   This also applies to course that have dates scheduled.

Is there a charge for these courses?

Usually not; they are sponsored by the Federal Transit Administration to further objectives of improved safety and security of our transit systems

When I press the "Register" button, I am transferred to another web site.

That is correct.   FTA sponsors these courses, which are in turn provided by suppliers like the Transportation Safety Institute and National Transit Institute.  At that point, you are making arrangements with those providers.

What are the key topic areas you sponsor?

State Safety Oversight (rail fixed guideway systems); Transit Bus Safety/Security; Drug and Alcohol Compliance; Fatigue Management; Transit Work Safety; and many others.   Offerings are constantly evolving.  Therefore, it would be advisable to check back often.

Who is the key Point of Contact at Federal Transit Administration should I have additional questions, suggestions or comments?

Ruth Lyons, Transit Safety and Security Training Specialist, 202-366-2233 or ruth.lyons@dot.gov

Why does FTA put so much effort into the provision of Training?

Because personalized face to face training is very effective.  And thus helps the transit industry improve in safety, security and operational areas.

Who are the providing agencies?

• Transportation Safety Institute, U.S. DOT
• National Transportation Institute, Rutgers University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Volpe National Transportation Systems Center

All have skilled professional training course development staff. 

Who teaches these courses?

Usually from a cadre of gifted and dedicated transit industry professionals who volunteer their time to better the industry.

Can I sign up to teach?

Sure.  We are always looking for transit system experts who have a desire to share their important knowledge with others in the industry.  Contact Ruth Lyons.

Are the course credits or certifications?

See each detailed course listing/registration forms for this information.

Does FTA provide other types of training than classroom?

Yes, in addition to classroom training, we provide seminars and workshops, supporting resources, guides and standards.   See the "resources" tab on this web site for information and links.