Continuing a focus on keeping public transportation the safest mode of surface travel, FTA published updates to its safety recertification training regulation: the Public Transportation Safety Training Certification Program (49 CFR Part 672).

The program establishes two recertification requirements that must be completed by rail transit agency and state safety oversight agency (SSOA) participants every two years following completion of the training certification program curriculum. This includes recertification requirements defined by FTA and recertification requirements defined by the rail transit agency.  

Why Recertification Matters

In the dynamic landscape of public transportation, staying abreast of the latest safety protocols, regulations, and best practices is critical to building and reinforcing a safety culture. Recertification ensures that industry professionals are equipped with the most current knowledge and skills to mitigate risks and maintain the safety of passengers, transit workers, and communities.

Who does this apply to?

Recertification requirements apply to individuals both SSOA and rail transit employees. 

• Section 672.11(a) establishes requirements for SSOAs to designate certain employees and contractors who must comply with training certification program requirements. This includes staff who conduct reviews, inspections, examinations, and other safety oversight activities of public transportation systems, including appropriate managers and supervisors of such personnel.
• Section 672.13(a) establishes requirements for rail transit agencies to designate employees and contractors who must comply with training certification requirements. This includes staff directly responsible for safety oversight of rail modes. 

How do I recertify? 

Recertification requires:

1. Completing rail transit agency or SSOA-specified recertification training. 
2. Completing the FTA Recertification Element. This training is an online, self-paced eLearning module hosted by the Transportation Safety Institute. 
3. Emailing completion certificates to FTASafetyPromotion@dot.gov. Training certificates will be sent within five business days.