Transit agencies with Automated Passenger Counter (APC) systems face a critical opportunity to achieve certification in their fiscal year 2025, which would provide the maximum three-year window to utilize APC data for National Transit Database reporting. Many agencies have invested in APC technology but have not yet completed the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) certification process, potentially missing out on enhanced funding opportunities and streamlined reporting capabilities. With the complexities of developing comprehensive benchmarking plans, achieving the critical five percent margin of error requirement, conducting proper data validation, and managing sampling procedures, the path to initial APC certification requires detailed technical knowledge and strategic planning.

This comprehensive webinar will provide transit agencies with all the essential information needed to successfully achieve APC certification and maximize the benefits of their existing APC investments. Led by Christian Londono and Levi McCollum from ETA Transit, who bring over 20 years of combined experience conducting passenger mile traveled surveys and guiding multiple agencies through successful APC certifications, this session draws from real-world implementation expertise. As recognized leaders in the APC certification space, ETA Transit has established a proven methodology for helping agencies navigate the complexities of benchmarking plans, data collection, and validation requirements.

Participants will receive a complimentary benchmarking plan template—a critical FTA requirement for APC certification—along with detailed guidance on the three key certification steps: benchmarking plan development, manual data collection procedures, and statistical validation processes. The session will cover essential preparation strategies including system evaluation, sampling methodology based on fleet size, data validation techniques to achieve required accuracy thresholds, and maintaining ongoing communication with NTD analysts. Whether you have APC systems awaiting initial certification or need guidance on re-certification requirements, this session will equip you with the technical knowledge and practical strategies needed to successfully navigate FTA certification requirements and maximize your federal funding opportunities.