If you’re responsible for Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) compliance, fleet operations, or commercial driver oversight, the J. J. Keller™ Certified Transportation Regulatory Expert (CTRE) program is a proven path to professional credibility and leadership in transportation compliance.
This elite, instructor-led certification equips you with practical skills and deep regulatory expertise to confidently navigate audits, reduce legal risk, strengthen safety practices, and ensure compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs).
- June 22–26, 2026 Sold Out
- September 28-October 2, 2026
- November 2-6, 2026
- March 1-5, 2027
- June 14–18, 2027
- September 13–17, 2027
- November 29–December 3, 2027
Questions about CTRE™ or your next step? Call 833‑708‑4633 to speak with a CTRE™ specialist.
Training a team? Ask about private company classes.
Start the CTREâ„¢ Certification Process
CTRE™ Certification is completed through a required two‑part pathway. Participants begin by completing a foundational virtual prerequisite course and then advance to a five‑day, in‑person certification program. Successful completion of both components and their required exams is necessary to earn CTRE™ Certification.
STEP 1:
Virtual CTREâ„¢ Foundations Prerequisite
Before attending the in‑person certification program, you must complete the required CTRE™ Foundations prerequisite. This virtual training establishes core FMCSR knowledge used throughout the certification program.
Key Details
- Required first step for CTREâ„¢ Certification
- Covers FMCSR structure and enforcement
- Available virtually for scheduling flexibility
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STEP 2:
CTRE™ In‑Person Certification Program
The in‑person CTRE™ Certification program builds on your prerequisite training and focuses on applying the FMCSRs through hands‑on exercises and real‑world scenarios covered in the certification curriculum.
Key Details
- 5‑day, in‑person program in Neenah, WI
- Scenario‑based learning led by compliance experts
- Final exam and credential upon successful completion
Prerequisite completion required to attend.
Review policies, requirements, and course details in the CTREâ„¢ Course Handbook
Earn Your CTREâ„¢ Certification Program
Upon successful completion of the required prerequisite course, the five‑day in‑person certification program, and both final exams, you’ll earn CTRE™ Certification. Certified professionals receive access to J. J. Keller's Compliance Network and are prepared to confidently manage investigations, maintain compliance, and better protect their drivers, vehicles, and organizations. Your CTRE™ Certification is valid for three years and requires annual maintenance. Learn more about certification maintenance.
Hear From a CTREâ„¢ Graduate
Just passed my CTRE exam and it was the best thing I ever did as a safety professional.  Thank you for the invitation. CTRE did an excellent job identifying what truly matters within complex federal regulations and helping safety professionals understand their role. The program is led by instructors who clearly work in the field, teaching the material—not the test. Their passion, adaptability, and beyond‑the‑classroom support made the learning experience exceptional.
Greg Holleran – Universal Environmental
The CTREâ„¢ 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
- Virtual Prerequisite FMCSR Training
- 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
Review the full Course Handbook.
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
Take The First Step Toward CTREâ„¢ Certification
Start with the required virtual CTREâ„¢ Foundations prerequisite, or view upcoming in-person certification dates.
Prefer to talk it through? Call 833‑708‑4633 to speak with a CTRE™ specialist.
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. Register for virtual prerequisite course.
Enrollment Options
- Enroll independently or through your organization. Travel and lodging are self-managed.
Recertification
- Your J. J. Kellerâ„¢ CTREâ„¢ Certification is valid for 3 years, with recertification available via a remote exam.
Certification Maintenance & Renewal
Once earned, CTREâ„¢ certification must be maintained through annual enrollment and periodic recertification to ensure credentials remain current with regulatory changes.Annual Renewal
- $200 USD annual enrollment fee
- Due each year on the anniversary of certification
Recertification
- Required every three (3) years
- Involves a recertification exam covering regulatory updates from the prior three years
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.