The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) launched a contest that challenges student software developers to use the agency’s raw performance data on commercial bus companies to create new apps and online solutions that enable consumers to make smart safety decisions when booking their bus travel.

It is hoped that the challenge will also raise public awareness about the availability and usefulness of FMCSA’s bus safety data. FMCSA’s Motorcoach Safety Data Utilization Student Challenge is open to all U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are 18 years or older and enrolled at a fully-accredited higher education institution, or planning to enroll in the fall of 2012 or winter of 2013. Submissions will be accepted starting April 30, 2012 through August 1, 2012. Winners will be announced on Sept. 20, 2012.

For complete details on contest eligibility requirements and rules, visit www.Challenge.gov. Also, check out the Secretary of Transportation’s Fast Lane Blog announcing the Challenge here.