A traffic signal operations specialist (TSOS) is a certification sponsored by the Transportation Professional Certification Board, Inc., and promulgated by the Institute of Transportation Engineers. Before taking the prerequisite examination, an individual must have at least five years of related working experience, though relevant education or training may be applied toward this requirement. TSOS certification does not substitute for appropriate professional licenses when required for specific responsibilities or jurisdictions.
The 100-question certification examination currently includes the following topics:
Principles of signals and signal systemsSignal control and functionalityTypes of signalsSupporting hardware devices and subsystemsSignal coordination and progressionSystem typesSpecial user needsDesign standardsTraffic flow theoryElements of signal design and implementationSignal phasing and geometricsPreemption and priorityPavement markings and signingDetectorsSignal head, cabinet and pole placementTemporary traffic control and equipment switch-overInitial turn-on and timing adjustmentsSignal TimingClearance intervalsIsolated signal timingCoordinated signal timingData collection proceduresPerformance measuresSoftware and analysisField implementationSystems controlDocumentationSignal operations and safety reviewsSafety auditScheduled field reviewsReceipt of and response to public inquiriesResponsive field ReviewsReevaluation of phasing and timingSignal removal or modificationAsset management and documentation