The CTRE™ Certification Process
Register > Complete Foundations Prerequisite > In-Person Certification Course > Exam > Certification
Unlike traditional training, CTRE™ Certification goes beyond topic memorization. You’ll learn how to apply the FMCSRs in real-world scenarios, preparing you to confidently manage investigations, maintain compliance, and protect your drivers and assets.
- Register for the virtual CTRE Foundations prerequisite virtual training course. This one-day, consultant-led webinar series lasts 6-7 hours, covering the foundational aspects of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The course concludes with a final exam (minimum score of 80% required to continue on with the onsite course). Registration includes a printed copy of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations that will be shipped to the registrant.
- Register for an in-person CTRE Certification Course. This five-day, training program held at the J. J. Keller corporate office in Neenah, WI, provides in-depth instruction on the FMCSRs and their real-world application. The course concludes with a final exam (minimum score of 80% required). Review the full Course Handbook.
- Earn your CTRE™ Certification, including access to J. J. Keller’s Compliance Network, and be fully prepared to better protect your fleet, advance your career and lead with confidence.
The CTRE™ Certification Approach
Unlike traditional training, CTRE™ Certification goes beyond topic memorization. You’ll learn how to apply the FMCSRs in real-world scenarios, preparing you to confidently manage investigations, maintain compliance, and protect your drivers and assets.
Program Highlights
- 5-day in-person certification training at the J. J. Keller corporate office in Neenah, WI
- Small-group format for personalized instruction and peer learning
- Live drills and tabletop exercises using FMCSR and electronic field operations training manual (FOTM) audit models
- Final exam with credential package upon successful completion
- Lunch and snacks provided daily
Respect, Resources & Real-World Knowledge
- Gain a respected transportation industry credential backed by J. J. Keller, the leader in safety and compliance since 1953
- Receive interactive, hands-on instruction from J. J. Keller's experienced transportation safety & compliance subject-matter experts
- Get Access to Compliance Network and the J. J. Keller® Expert Help service to get the answers you need to run your fleet
- Get updates and support throughout your certification to stay ahead of regulatory changes
Curriculum Overview
Day 1 - FMCSR Foundations & Enforcement
- Learn how the FMCSRs are structured, interpreted, and enforced
- Review the FMCSA's auditing and penalty process, the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program, and how to apply the Safety Management Cycle
- Understand the DOT registration, insurance, and recordkeeping requirements
Day 2 - Driver Qualification and Drug & Alcohol Testing
- Build and maintain compliant driver qualification (DQ) files, conduct driver vetting, and administer road tests
- Navigate the Clearinghouse requirements and protocols
- Prepare for audit exposure related to drug and alcohol testing
Day 3 - Driving & Hours-of-Service (HOS) Rules
- Review Parts 392 and 395, including roadside enforcement procedures
- Understand regulatory requirements for electronic logging devices (ELDs), log audits, and HOS exceptions
- Identify and prevent log falsification
Day 4 - Vehicle Inspection & Maintenance
- Explore the requirements of Parts 393 and 396
- Understand how to implement an effective vehicle maintenance program
- Review vehicle inspection and cargo securement best practices
Day 5 - Hazmat & Exam Preparation
- Review the requirements of Part 397 and the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR)
- Understand the hazmat driving, training, placarding, packaging, and documentation requirements
- Prepare for the CTRE certification final examination
Program Prerequisites
- Virtual or in-person J. J. Keller® training sessions must be completed with a passing score prior to attending.
Enrollment Options
- Enroll independently or through your organization. Travel and lodging are self-managed.
Recertification
- Your J. J. Keller™ CTRE™ Certification is valid for 3 years, with recertification available via a remote exam.
Lead with Confidence. Protect Your Fleet. Elevate Compliance.
Unlock the highest level of transportation regulatory expertise with the J. J. Keller™ Certified Transportation Regulatory Expert (CTRE) Certification — an elite, instructor-led program designed for professionals responsible for FMCSA compliance, fleet operations, and commercial driver oversight.
In this video, discover how the CTRE program equips you to protect your fleet, reduce legal risk, improve safety practices, and excel as a compliance leader.
FAQs
What is the typical class size?
expand_moreexpand_less Each class can accommodate a maximum of 25 participants.
What are the class hours and daily schedule?
expand_moreexpand_less Classes run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break.
Are classes available online or remotely?
expand_moreexpand_less The certification classes themselves are not offered remotely. However, prerequisite (CTRE Foundations) training sessions are conducted online.
Are there any prerequisite training sessions required?
expand_moreexpand_less Yes, prerequisite (CTRE Foundations) training sessions are required before attending the certification class.
How many prerequisite (CTRE Foundations) sessions are there, and what is their duration?
expand_moreexpand_less Currently, these sessions are consultant-led webinars that last between 6 to 7 hours, depending on the Q&A, and are held in a single day. In the future, these will be delivered via our J. J. Keller Training Management Center and will be self-paced.