Top 11 Transportation Dispatcher Certifications

Certifications for transportation dispatchers are important for several reasons. First, they demonstrate a dispatcher's knowledge and proficiency in the field. They also show potential employers that the dispatcher is dedicated to their profession and has a commitment to professional development. Additionally, certifications can help dispatchers stand out from other applicants and make them more competitive when applying for jobs. Lastly, having a certification can increase confidence, as it is proof of mastery of a certain skill set. In short, certifications are important tools for transportation dispatchers to gain an edge in the job market and advance their careers.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Transportation Dispatchers and explain how they can help to advance a dispatcher's career.

What are Transportation Dispatcher Certifications?

Transportation dispatcher certification is a type of professional certification program that helps transportation dispatchers gain the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their job duties. This certification typically involves taking courses on topics such as communication, problem-solving, customer service, logistics and route planning. By obtaining this certification, dispatchers demonstrate their expertise in the field of transportation dispatch and can help them secure better employment opportunities or promotions.

Transportation dispatcher certification can also provide valuable insight into the daily operations of a transportation company. It can teach dispatchers how to effectively manage routes, schedules, and resources while considering safety regulations and customer expectations. Dispatchers who have obtained this certification may be more knowledgeable in areas such as maintenance and repair scheduling, vehicle tracking systems, routing optimization, and other areas related to the transportation industry.

The benefits of having a Transportation Dispatcher Certification extend beyond just improving job prospects—it can also help dispatchers become more proficient in their current role. A certified dispatcher is able to better anticipate problems before they arise and develop strategies for addressing them quickly and efficiently. They are also better equipped to handle unexpected events such as delays or cancellations without compromising customer satisfaction or safety standards. Furthermore, certified dispatchers may be eligible for higher pay due to their qualifications. In short, obtaining a Transportation Dispatcher Certification is an excellent way for individuals to advance their career in the transportation industry while increasing their value as an employee.

Pro tip: When considering a transportation dispatcher certification, make sure to research and understand the different requirements for each state or country in which you plan to work. This will ensure you have the necessary qualifications to meet the requirements of your employer. Additionally, it is important to stay up-to-date with any changes in regulations and laws related to transportation dispatching.

Related: What does a Transportation Dispatcher do?

Top 11 Transportation Dispatcher Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Transportation Dispatchers today.

1. Certified Transportation Professional (CTP)

Certified Transportation Professional (CTP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). The CTP certification is designed to recognize and promote excellence in public transportation management. It provides an opportunity for professionals to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and commitment to the industry.

The CTP program consists of three levels: Associate, Professional, and Executive. To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational requirements and have at least five years of experience in the public transportation field. They must also pass an examination that covers topics such as operations, safety, planning, finance, customer service, human resources management, and marketing.

The certification process typically takes six months to complete. Applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents that verify their education and experience in the field. Once approved by APTA's Certification Board, applicants will be required to take a two-hour written exam administered by a third-party testing company. Upon successful completion of the exam, they will receive their CTP certificate from APTA.

The cost of obtaining a CTP certification varies depending on the level of certification sought after. For example, the cost for an Associate level certification is $225 USD while the cost for a Professional or Executive level certification is $450 USD.

2. Certified Dispatcher Supervisor (CDS)

Certified Dispatcher Supervisor (CDS) is a certification program designed to recognize the professional achievements of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) dispatchers. CDS certification is awarded to those who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the areas of EMS dispatch, communication protocols, and management of emergency medical services.

To be eligible for CDS certification, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

• Have at least three years of experience as an EMS dispatcher
• Be currently employed as an EMS dispatcher
• Have successfully completed a recognized EMS dispatch training program
• Pass a written exam administered by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT)
• Complete an approved continuing education course every two years.

The process for obtaining CDS certification typically takes about six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants must complete all of the necessary requirements and submit their application to NAEMT for review and approval. Once approved, applicants will receive their CDS certificate in the mail.

The cost for obtaining CDS certification varies depending on where you live and which organization you are applying through. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $50-$200 USD.

3. Certified Logistics and Transportation Analyst (CLTA)

Certified Logistics and Transportation Analyst (CLTA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation & Logistics (AST&L). The CLTA certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of competency in logistics and transportation. It is designed for professionals working in the fields of logistics, supply chain management, transportation, and related areas.

The CLTA certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, warehouse operations, transportation regulations, and other related topics. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in logistics or transportation-related fields.

The cost for the CLTA certification varies depending on the applicant’s location. In general, it costs between $500 and $1,000 USD to take the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CLTA certificate within four weeks.

The CLTA certification is valid for three years from the date of issuance. After three years, applicants must retake the exam in order to maintain their certification status.

4. Certified Fleet Manager (CFM)

Certified Fleet Manager (CFM) is a professional designation awarded by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The CFM credential is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in fleet management.

To earn the CFM credential, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as fleet operations, maintenance, safety, and finance. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible to take the CFM exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in a fleet management role or have completed an ASE-approved training program. Applicants may also be required to submit proof of their work experience or training program completion.

The cost of taking the CFM exam varies depending on where it is taken. Generally, the fee ranges from $150-$250 per person.

5. Certified Public Transportation Manager (CPTM)

Certified Public Transportation Manager (CPTM) is a professional certification for public transportation managers. The CPTM certification is offered by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), and it recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in managing public transportation systems.

In order to become certified, an individual must meet certain requirements, including having at least four years of experience in public transportation management, passing a comprehensive exam, and completing continuing education courses. The APTA also requires that applicants demonstrate knowledge of the principles and practices of public transportation management.

It usually takes six months to one year to complete the requirements for the CPTM certification. To get started, applicants must submit an application to APTA and pay an application fee of $150. Once approved, applicants must take the CPTM exam which costs $350. After passing the exam, applicants must complete at least 12 hours of continuing education courses within two years or they will need to retake the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CPTM certification varies depending on how long it takes to complete all of the requirements. In addition to paying for the application fee and exam fee, applicants may also need to pay for any additional courses or materials needed to fulfill their continuing education requirement.

6. Certified Emergency Vehicle Operator (CEVO)

Certified Emergency Vehicle Operator (CEVO) is a certification program developed by the National Fire Academy to ensure that emergency vehicle operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely operate their vehicles. The certification covers topics such as defensive driving, emergency vehicle operations, and response techniques.

The CEVO program consists of three courses: Basic Emergency Vehicle Operations (BEVO), Advanced Emergency Vehicle Operations (AEVO), and Specialized Emergency Vehicle Operations (SEVO). Each course must be completed in order to receive the CEVO certification. The total cost for all three courses is approximately $1,000.

The BEVO course typically takes two days to complete and costs around $500. This course covers topics such as defensive driving techniques, hazardous materials awareness, accident scene management, and basic emergency vehicle operations.

The AEVO course typically takes four days to complete and costs around $400. This course covers topics such as advanced emergency vehicle operations, pursuit driving techniques, accident scene management, and hazardous materials awareness.

The SEVO course typically takes one day to complete and costs around $100. This course covers topics such as specialized emergency vehicle operations, pursuit driving techniques, accident scene management, hazardous materials awareness, and other specialized skills related to emergency vehicle operations.

Once all three courses are completed successfully the student will receive their CEVO certification which is valid for two years from the date of completion.

7. National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course (DDC-8)

The National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course (DDC-8) is an 8-hour course designed to help drivers become safer and more responsible on the road. The course covers a wide range of topics, including driving laws, safe driving techniques, accident prevention, and how to handle emergency situations. It also includes a review of basic vehicle maintenance and inspection procedures.

The DDC-8 can be taken in person or online. In-person classes are typically offered by local driving schools or community centers, while online courses are available through the National Safety Council website. The length of the course varies depending on the provider but generally takes 8 hours to complete.

The cost of the DDC-8 varies depending on where it is taken, but most providers charge between $50 and $100 for the course. Some states may offer discounts for taking the course or may require drivers to take it as part of their driver's license renewal process.

Overall, the DDC-8 is an excellent way for drivers to learn important safety information and improve their driving skills. It helps them become more aware of their surroundings and make better decisions behind the wheel.

8. National Association of Fleet Administrators Certification Program (NAFA CP)

The National Association of Fleet Administrators Certification Program (NAFA CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of fleet administrators. The program is administered by NAFA, an international professional association dedicated to advancing the fleet profession.

To become certified as a NAFA Certified Professional (CP), applicants must meet certain requirements and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as fleet management principles, safety and risk management, cost control strategies, vehicle selection and maintenance, fuel management, technology utilization, and more.

The process typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete. To get started, applicants must first submit an application form and fee ($500 for members/$700 for non-members). After submitting the application form and fee, applicants will receive their study materials which include the CP Exam Study Guide & Practice Questions. Applicants are then required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of study time before taking the exam.

Once ready to take the exam, applicants must register with Prometric Testing Centers and pay a $200 testing fee. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 2 hours. A passing score on the exam is 70%. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their NAFA CP certificate in approximately 6-8 weeks.

In addition to the initial application fee ($500 for members/$700 for non-members) and testing fee ($200), there is also an annual renewal fee of $100 due each year after certification has been obtained in order to maintain active status as a NAFA CP.

9. International Association of Public Transport Driver Training and Certification Program (IAPT DTCP)

The International Association of Public Transport Driver Training and Certification Program (IAPT DTCP) is an international program designed to ensure the highest standards of driver training and certification for public transport drivers. The program is administered by the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), a global organization representing the interests of public transport operators, authorities, suppliers, and research institutes.

The IAPT DTCP is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of professional driver training and certification. It includes modules on safety, customer service, driving techniques, route knowledge, vehicle maintenance, emergency procedures, and more. The program also provides guidance on best practices for hiring and managing drivers.

The IAPT DTCP requires applicants to complete an online course before taking an in-person exam. The online course typically takes around 25 hours to complete and costs $150 USD. Upon successful completion of the online course and passing the in-person exam, applicants will receive their IAPT DTCP certificate. This certificate is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

To get certified through the IAPT DTCP program, applicants must first register with UITP as a member or non-member applicant. After registering, applicants can purchase access to the online course and take the in-person exam at an approved testing center near them. Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having a valid driver’s license from their country of residence as well as meeting any other requirements set by UITP or their local transport authority.

The cost of taking part in the IAPT DTCP program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member applicant but typically ranges from $150 USD to $500 USD depending on your location and other factors such as additional fees associated with taking the in-person exam at an approved testing center near you.

10. American Bus Association School Bus Driver Instructor Certification Program

The American Bus Association (ABA) School Bus Driver Instructor Certification Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide school bus drivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely transport students. The program consists of three components: classroom instruction, hands-on training, and a final exam.

Classroom instruction includes topics such as defensive driving, student management, vehicle maintenance, and emergency procedures. During the hands-on training portion of the program, participants will be required to demonstrate their ability to operate a school bus in a variety of situations. Finally, participants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The ABA School Bus Driver Instructor Certification Program typically takes between two and four days to complete, depending on the number of participants enrolled in the course. To get certified, individuals must first register for the program through the ABA website or by calling their local ABA office. After registering for the course, participants will need to attend all classes and pass all exams in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the ABA School Bus Driver Instructor Certification Program varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$400 per person.

11. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence Master Technician Certification Program

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Technician Certification Program is a professional certification program that recognizes automotive service technicians who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their field. The program is designed to identify and recognize those individuals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to diagnose, repair, and maintain today’s complex vehicles.

To become an ASE Master Technician, a technician must pass all eight of the ASE exams in the automotive specialty areas. These areas include engine repair, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical/electronic systems, heating and air conditioning, and engine performance.

The process of becoming an ASE Master Technician can take anywhere from one to two years depending on how quickly the individual technician is able to complete the required tests. Each test costs $50 USD per attempt; however, some employers may cover the cost of testing for their employees.

To get started on the path towards becoming an ASE Master Technician, individuals must first register with ASE as a candidate. After registering with ASE as a candidate they will be given access to study materials that will help them prepare for each of the eight tests they need to take. Once they have passed all eight tests they will receive their official certification from ASE.

Do You Really Need a Transportation Dispatcher Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of job you are looking for. If you are seeking a career as a transportation dispatcher, then yes, you will likely need to obtain a certificate in order to demonstrate your qualifications and expertise in the field. A transportation dispatcher certificate can be obtained by completing an accredited program in areas such as logistics, dispatching, or transportation management. It may also include courses such as customer service, safety regulations, and communication skills.

By obtaining a certificate in transportation dispatching, employers will know that you have the knowledge and skills necessary for the job. You will also have gained valuable experience that can help you stand out from other applicants. Furthermore, having a certificate may open up more opportunities for advancement within the industry if that is something you are interested in pursuing.

Overall, having a transportation dispatcher certificate is an important step to take if you are looking for work in this field. It shows potential employers that you have the necessary skills and qualifications needed for the job and it may even lead to additional career opportunities down the line.

Related: Transportation Dispatcher Resume Examples

FAQs About Transportation Dispatcher Certifications

1. What is a Transportation Dispatcher Certification?

Answer: A Transportation Dispatcher Certification is an industry-recognized credential that verifies an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of transportation dispatching. It demonstrates an individual’s ability to effectively manage and coordinate the movement of personnel and freight on a daily basis.

2. How do I become certified as a Transportation Dispatcher?

Answer: To become certified as a Transportation Dispatcher, you must complete an approved training course and pass an exam. The training course will cover topics such as safety regulations, communication techniques, dispatching principles, fleet management, and more. After completing the training course, you must pass the certification exam in order to receive your certification.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Transportation Dispatcher?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the length of the training course and how quickly you can complete it. Generally speaking, most courses take between two weeks and six months to complete depending on your availability and learning speed.

4. What are some benefits of becoming a certified Transportation Dispatcher?

Answer: Becoming a certified Transportation Dispatcher provides numerous benefits including greater job security, higher pay potential, improved career opportunities, increased respect from colleagues in the field, access to specialized resources for dispatchers, and more.

5. Is there any continuing education required for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes! Most certifying organizations require that you complete continuing education or refresher courses every few years in order to maintain your certification status. This ensures that you stay up-to-date with industry regulations and best practices so that you can continue providing excellent service to your customers.