Top 10 Traffic Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a traffic engineer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that is recognized by employers. Certifications show that the engineer has taken the time to study and master a particular area of traffic engineering, making them more attractive to potential employers. In addition, certifications can provide engineers with additional credibility and recognition when negotiating salaries or other employment benefits. Finally, certifications can help traffic engineers to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in their field, giving them an edge over their competition when it comes to finding new job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications available for Traffic Engineers and how they can help advance their career.

What are Traffic Engineer Certifications?

Traffic engineer certification is a professional credential awarded by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) to individuals who demonstrate an advanced knowledge and understanding of traffic engineering principles. It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of expertise in all aspects of traffic engineering, including planning, analysis, design and operations.

Having a traffic engineer certification can be beneficial for both employers and employees. For employers, it indicates that the employee has met rigorous standards and is knowledgeable in the field of traffic engineering. This can help ensure that projects are completed efficiently and accurately, resulting in greater productivity and cost savings. For employees, having a certified credential demonstrates their commitment to excellence in their profession, which can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries. In addition, having a certified credential may also provide access to certain benefits such as reduced rates on insurance or professional development courses.

Pro Tip: Make sure to thoroughly research the requirements for traffic engineer certification in your state or country before beginning the process. Different jurisdictions may have different requirements, so it's important to know what you need to do in order to become certified. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date on any changes or updates to the requirements.

Related: What does a Traffic Engineer do?

Top 10 Traffic Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Traffic Engineers today.

1. Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE) Certification

Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE) Certification is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of traffic engineering and operations. It is intended to provide a higher level of recognition for those individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge, experience, and competency in the field.

The PTOE certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as traffic engineering principles, traffic operations analysis, traffic control devices, traffic signal design and operation, roadway design and safety, and transportation planning. Applicants must also demonstrate their understanding of current industry standards through continuing education courses.

The exam typically takes two days to complete and can be taken at any ITE-approved testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on the location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

In order to maintain the PTOE certification, individuals must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years. The cost for continuing education varies depending on the course provider but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD per hour.

2. Certified Professional Traffic Signal Designer (CPTSD) Certification

The Certified Professional Traffic Signal Designer (CPTSD) certification is a professional credential offered by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of traffic signal design. The CPTSD certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in traffic signal design, as well as successful completion of an exam.

To be eligible for the CPTSD certification, applicants must meet certain requirements. They must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in civil engineering or related field, plus at least five years of experience in traffic signal design. Additionally, they must have completed at least one ITE-approved course in traffic signal design and successfully passed the CPTSD exam.

The CPTSD exam consists of both multiple choice and essay questions covering topics such as traffic engineering principles, traffic operations, signal timing methods, and geometric design. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam. The cost of taking the CPTSD exam is $250 USD. Once applicants pass the exam, they are awarded their CPTSD certification which is valid for five years before renewal is required.

3. Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Traffic Engineering Certification

The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Traffic Engineering Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of traffic engineering. The certification is designed to provide employers with an objective measure of an individual’s qualifications for positions involving the planning, design, operation and maintenance of transportation systems.

The ITE Traffic Engineering Certification is offered at three levels: Certified Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (CPTOE), Certified Professional Transportation Planner (CPTP) and Certified Professional Traffic Signal Designer (CPTSD). To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass a written exam, and complete a portfolio review.

It typically takes between two and four years to become certified. The first step is to complete the required educational courses or obtain equivalent work experience. Applicants must also pass the written exam for their desired certification level. Finally, applicants must submit a portfolio review which includes examples of their work in traffic engineering.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on the certification level but generally ranges from $500-$800 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with completing the required education or obtaining equivalent work experience.

4. Professional Engineer (PE) in Traffic/Transportation Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) in Traffic/Transportation Engineering is a professional certification that is awarded to engineers who have demonstrated competence and expertise in the field of traffic/transportation engineering. The PE certification requires a combination of education, experience, and passing an exam administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

To become a Professional Engineer in Traffic/Transportation Engineering, you must first complete a four-year bachelor's degree program in engineering from an accredited college or university. After graduating with your bachelor's degree, you must then gain at least four years of experience working as an engineer in the field of traffic/transportation engineering. Once you have gained this experience, you can then apply to take the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Passing this exam will qualify you to take the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam for Traffic/Transportation Engineering.

The PE exam for Traffic/Transportation Engineering typically takes 8 hours to complete and includes questions on topics such as traffic operations, highway design, transportation planning, safety analysis, public transit systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), and more. The cost for taking the PE exam varies depending on where you take it but can range from $200-$400 USD.

5. National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Transportation & Traffic Engineering Exam

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Transportation & Traffic Engineering Exam is a professional engineering exam that tests the knowledge and skills of individuals who are seeking to become certified as Professional Engineers in the field of transportation and traffic engineering. The exam is designed to assess an individual's understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures related to the planning, design, operation, and management of transportation systems.

The NCEES Transportation & Traffic Engineering Exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice section and a performance section. The multiple-choice section consists of 80 questions that must be completed in three hours or less. The performance section consists of four problems that must be completed in five hours or less.

To take the NCEES Transportation & Traffic Engineering Exam, you must first register with NCEES by completing their online application form. Once your application has been accepted, you will receive an authorization letter with instructions on how to schedule your exam appointment. You can then schedule your exam at any Prometric testing center located near you.

The cost for taking the NCEES Transportation & Traffic Engineering Exam is $225 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

6. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Certified Professional in Transportation

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Certified Professional in Transportation (CPT) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of transportation professionals. The CPT credential demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their profession, and provides employers with assurance that they have a qualified professional on staff.

In order to obtain the CPT credential, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least four years of experience in the transportation field and passing an examination administered by AASHTO. The exam consists of both multiple-choice questions and essay questions covering topics such as transportation planning, engineering, operations, finance, safety, environment, law and policy.

The cost for taking the exam is $500 for AASHTO members or $750 for non-members. It typically takes between six months to one year after submitting an application to take the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CPT certificate within two weeks.

7. International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) Level I, II, III Certifications

International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) Level I, II, and III Certifications are certifications that are designed to certify individuals in the installation, maintenance, and repair of traffic signals, street lighting systems, and other related infrastructure.

Level I Certification: This certification is designed for entry-level technicians who have basic knowledge of traffic signal systems. It takes approximately two days to complete the Level I Certification program which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on activities. To get certified at this level, applicants must pass a written exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the Level I Certification is $400 USD.

Level II Certification: This certification is designed for technicians who have experience in traffic signal systems and want to increase their knowledge and skills. It takes approximately four days to complete the Level II Certification program which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on activities. To get certified at this level, applicants must pass a written exam with a score of 80% or higher as well as a practical exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the Level II Certification is $600 USD.

Level III Certification: This certification is designed for experienced technicians who want to become experts in traffic signal systems. It takes approximately six days to complete the Level III Certification program which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on activities. To get certified at this level, applicants must pass a written exam with a score of 90% or higher as well as a practical exam with a score of 80% or higher. The cost for the Level III Certification is $800 USD.

8. American Public Works Association (APWA) Certified Professional in Traffic Signal Design

The American Public Works Association (APWA) Certified Professional in Traffic Signal Design is a certification program for professionals who design and maintain traffic signals. The program provides recognition for those who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully design traffic signal systems.

To become certified, candidates must complete an online application and submit proof of their qualifications. Qualifications include a minimum of five years of experience in traffic signal engineering or design, completion of an approved traffic signal design course, and passage of the APWA Certified Professional in Traffic Signal Design exam.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as signal timing, signal phasing, geometric design, pedestrian signals, detection devices, system operations and maintenance. Candidates have four hours to complete the exam.

The cost to apply for the APWA Certified Professional in Traffic Signal Design certification is $250. This fee covers the cost of processing the application as well as providing access to study materials and practice exams prior to taking the actual exam.

9. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Certified Professional in Transportation Planning

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Certified Professional in Transportation Planning (CPTP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge and experience in the field of transportation planning. The CPTP credential is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a level of expertise in the practice of transportation planning, including its principles, techniques, and methods.

To obtain the CPTP credential, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements. These include having at least five years of full-time professional experience in transportation planning or related fields, as well as an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by ASCE that covers topics such as land use planning, urban design, public involvement processes, traffic engineering principles and practices, and environmental considerations.

The cost for taking the exam is $500 for ASCE members and $700 for non-members. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions which must be completed within three hours. Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants will receive their CPTP credential within six to eight weeks.

The CPTP credential is valid for three years after it has been issued and can be renewed by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam every three years.

10. International Road Federation (IRF) Certified Roadway Safety Professional

The International Road Federation (IRF) Certified Roadway Safety Professional (CRSP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of roadway safety professionals. The CRSP certification is the only globally recognized credential for roadway safety professionals, and it provides employers with assurance that their staff have the necessary expertise to manage and implement safe road infrastructure projects.

In order to obtain the CRSP certification, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, pass an examination, and demonstrate a minimum of two years of professional experience in the field of roadway safety. Applicants must also agree to abide by the IRF Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year. After submitting an application, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as traffic engineering principles, highway design standards, traffic operations analysis, crash data analysis, roadway safety management systems, and more. The exam fee is $500 USD.

Once applicants have passed the exam they will be required to submit proof of their professional experience in order to receive their CRSP certification. This includes providing evidence of at least two years' worth of relevant work experience in roadway safety or related fields such as traffic engineering or transportation planning.

The cost for obtaining the CRSP certification varies depending on country but generally ranges from $1,000 - $2,500 USD. This includes fees for registration, examination costs, and any additional materials needed for submission.

Do You Really Need a Traffic Engineer Certificate?

When it comes to making a career in traffic engineering, a traffic engineer certificate is not always necessary. Depending on the individual’s experience and education, a certificate may or may not be beneficial.

For those who have studied civil engineering or are currently studying civil engineering, a traffic engineer certificate may be beneficial. This type of certification will provide individuals with specialized knowledge and skills in the field of traffic engineering. The certificate can also provide an edge when applying for jobs in traffic engineering as it demonstrates the applicant has a comprehensive understanding of the field.

For those who have already obtained their bachelor's degree in civil engineering and have some experience in the field, then they may not need to obtain a traffic engineer certificate. However, if they are looking to specialize further within the field of traffic engineering, then obtaining such a certificate could be beneficial. It could open up more opportunities for them as well as demonstrate their expertise in the field.

Overall, whether one needs to obtain a traffic engineer certificate depends on their background and experience. For some, it may be beneficial while for others it may not be necessary at all.

Related: Traffic Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Traffic Engineer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for traffic engineers?

Answer: There are several certifications available for traffic engineers, including the Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE), Certified Traffic Signal Technician (CTST), and the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Certified Professional in Traffic Operations (CPTO).

2. What is the cost of a traffic engineer certification?

Answer: The cost of a traffic engineer certification can vary depending on the type of certification and organization offering it. Generally, ITE CPTO certification costs around $400 and PTOE certification costs around $500.

3. How long does it take to become certified as a traffic engineer?

Answer: Depending on your experience level and how quickly you can complete the required coursework, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to become certified as a traffic engineer.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified traffic engineer?

Answer: Yes, most programs require applicants to have at least two years of professional experience in traffic engineering or related field before they can be eligible for certification. Additionally, some organizations may require candidates to pass an exam or complete additional training courses prior to becoming certified.

5. How often do I need to renew my traffic engineering certification?

Answer: Most certifications must be renewed every three years in order to remain valid. Renewal requirements may include completing continuing education courses or passing an updated version of the original exam.