How to Keep Your Safety Credentials Current With No Extra Work

Staying sharp in the ever-changing world of fleet safety and compliance isn’t just best practice—it’s essential. But for many safety professionals, finding time to complete continuing education or certification renewal requirements can feel like yet another item on an already packed to-do list.

Whether you’re managing DOT files, overseeing driver training, or preparing for the next audit, carving out hours for your own professional development often takes a backseat. But what if there were a way to integrate credential renewal into the work you’re already doing?

The Hidden Challenge of Certification Maintenance

Certifications like the Certified Director of Safety (CDS) or Certified Safety Supervisor (CSS) through the North American Transportation Management Institute (NATMI) are highly respected in the industry—and for good reason. They demonstrate your commitment to safety leadership, regulatory knowledge, and ongoing improvement.

But NATMI, like many credentialing bodies, requires regular recertification. That typically means earning a set number of continuing education points through approved or qualifying training.

The problem? Most safety leaders are too busy delivering training to stop and take it themselves.

Tip #1: Align Training Goals Across Roles

Instead of treating professional development and team compliance as two separate tracks, align them. Look for courses that both your drivers or employees and you can benefit from.

For example, a module on Hours of Service or Roadside Inspection prep can be assigned to the fleet while you, as the safety leader, complete it alongside them and receive credit toward certification renewal.

This approach not only saves time—it reinforces your leadership and sets a strong example for your team.

Tip #2: Choose a Platform That Works for You

Many companies invest in safety training tools to manage employee compliance—but overlook how these same tools can benefit their own credentials.

Some training platforms now offer programs that qualify for NATMI certification renewal credits—so safety managers can meet their own professional goals while training their teams.

Take a moment to review your current training solution. Does it offer:

• Transportation-focused content aligned with NATMI standards?

• Certificates of completion with contact hours documented?

• Online, on-demand access that fits into your day?

If not, a small switch in platforms could save you dozens of hours over the next renewal cycle.

Tip #3: Track Your Hours in Real Time

Waiting until your certification renewal deadline to compile training logs is a recipe for stress. Instead, make it part of your routine.

Each time you complete an eligible course, save the certificate and jot down the contact hours and point value (NATMI awards 2 points per 8 contact hours). Some platforms provide a downloadable transcript or dashboard that simplifies this process—use it.

A quick spreadsheet or folder on your desktop labeled “NATMI Renewal” can go a long way in keeping you organized and ready.

Tip #4: Leverage Your Role as a Trainer

Don’t forget—if you’re delivering internal training or developing safety content, this may count as continuing education too. NATMI awards credit not only for attending training, but also for presenting or facilitating qualifying sessions.

Check the NATMI guidelines to see which of your regular duties may qualify, and be sure to document your involvement with agendas, slide decks, or attendance logs.

Bottom Line: Make Renewal Part of the Workflow

The key to keeping your safety credentials current isn’t working longer hours—it’s working smarter. By integrating NATMI-eligible training into your team’s existing learning programs, you’ll advance your own professional standing without adding to your workload.

Related Resource

Want to see which courses qualify for NATMI renewal? Explore Eligible Training Options