Career roadmap
How to Become a Traffic Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a traffic technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a traffic technician: (1) finish high school, (2) take engineering tech courses, (3) get hired at a DOT or city, (4) earn IMSA credentials, (5) advance. Most people need about Several months on the job. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a traffic technician
Finish high school
Or GED.
Take engineering tech courses
Helpful.
Get hired at a DOT or city
Technician.
Earn IMSA credentials
Skills.
Advance
Senior technician.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; engineering technology courses help.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Several months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- IMSA Traffic Signal Technician: Credential.
- ITE training: Institute of Transportation Engineers.
- Work zone safety: Required.
- GIS certificate: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with traffic counting, signal timing, and data analysis, and practice attention to detail and communication. Learning the traffic technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Traffic Technician: Entry.
- Senior Technician: Lead studies.
- Traffic Operations Supervisor: Lead.
- Traffic Engineer: With a degree.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Traffic Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do I need a degree?
No.
How long does it take to become a traffic technician?
Most people need about Several months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; engineering technology courses help.
Do you need a degree to be a traffic technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for traffic technicians?
Common credentials include IMSA Traffic Signal Technician, ITE training, Work zone safety, and GIS certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-6041 (Traffic technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Traffic technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.