FTA Issues Final Rule on Training Requirements to Improve Transit Safety

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) today announced a final rule updating FTA’s Public Transportation Safety Certification Training Program.

The updates maintain a uniform safety training curriculum and minimum requirements for rail transit and state safety personnel, building upon existing training requirements for safety professionals.

Certification Training Programs

The certification training program sets requirements for safety professionals in rail transit agencies as well as those with oversight functions at State Safety Oversight Agencies.

The training program updates are the result of months of work by federal leaders and in response to comments filed by stakeholders, including transit agencies.

“The safe operation of public transit is always FTA’s top priority,” said FTA Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool. “Today’s updates to the training regulation reflect our steadfast commitment, in cooperation with our state and industry partners, that every transit rider and worker has a safe and reliable transportation experience.”

First Major Update to Certification Training

In the first major update to the safety certification training program regulation since 2018, FTA improved the recertification process and refined communication procedures to manage the program more effectively.

As part of the revisions, FTA is providing greater flexibility in the curriculum to address changing training needs as the industry evolves. The updated rule also streamlines administrative requirements to help ensure everyone who needs to receive training does so.

The update builds upon the Public Transportation Safety Certification Training Program rule issued in 2018, which established a uniform curriculum for safety oversight training as well as minimum requirements to enhance the technical proficiency of those who conduct safety audits and examinations.