U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for ensuring a safe, efficient, and modern transportation system. It oversees air, rail, highway, maritime, and transit networks while implementing policies to improve transportation infrastructure and safety.

DOT Agencies and Their Functions

Highways and Road Safety

  • Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) – Oversees the national highway system and funds road construction projects.
  • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Regulates vehicle safety standards and promotes road safety initiatives.
  • Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) – Enforces safety regulations for commercial trucks and buses.

Public Transit and Railways

  • Federal Transit Administration (FTA) – Supports funding and development of public transportation systems.
  • Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) – Regulates railroad safety and promotes rail system improvements.

Aviation and Air Traffic

  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Regulates air traffic control, aviation safety, and airport development.

Maritime and Waterway Transportation

  • Maritime Administration (MARAD) – Supports the U.S. shipping industry and maritime transportation system.
  • Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (SLSDC) – Maintains and operates the U.S. portion of the St. Lawrence Seaway for commercial navigation.

Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety

  • Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) – Regulates the transportation of hazardous materials and pipeline safety.

Research and Innovation

  • Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology (OST-R) – Oversees transportation research and innovation.

Civil Rights and Accessibility

  • Office of Civil Rights – Ensures equal access to transportation services and enforces nondiscrimination policies.

The Department of Transportation plays a vital role in maintaining the safety, efficiency, and modernization of the U.S. transportation system across highways, rail, air, and maritime networks.