VDOT Launches First In A Series Of Required Environmental Certification Modules

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Local Assistance Division and Environmental Division have launched the first in a series of certification modules for consultants working on VDOT projects and/or locally administered projects. These modules review policies, practices, and guidance for completing environmental tasks, and highlight VDOT’s expectations of consultants in order to have an efficient and defensible statewide program.  

The first set of modules to be released are focused on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process. The eight NEPA modules cover topics including:  

• How VDOT processes different NEPA document types,  
• Agreements and other efficiencies VDOT can apply to the NEPA process, and  
• Roles and responsibilities when the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), VDOT, and localities interact in the NEPA process.  

The modules are focused on pertinent information for trained NEPA practitioners to more effectively work with VDOT. They also include key terms, practices, and expectations for the NEPA process. Individuals seeking certification can take all eight modules at the same time or take one at a time. Once all of the modules are completed, VDOT University will provide an electronic certificate which can be downloaded and easily shared in the future. 
 
This first set of modules for the Environmental Certification are available to the public via VDOT University which can be accessed at https://VirtualCampus.VDOT.Virginia.gov. From this location, users can log-in with an existing account or create an account. Once logged in, search for “NEPA” and identify the link for curriculum which includes all eight modules.  

Please note, beginning on March 31, 2022, VDOT and locality staff issuing Requests for Proposals (RFPs) that include NEPA services must require the proposed NEPA practitioners to provide a copy of the certificate they receive upon completing all of the NEPA certification modules on VDOT University. In addition, VDOT staff who are reviewing NEPA products will only accept and coordinate NEPA products with individuals who have completed all of the NEPA certification modules. This allows interested individuals six months to complete the training. The training will remain available after March 31st for new staff or additional team members who plan to work on NEPA products.  

The attached Frequently Asked Questions also are posted with the VDOT University curriculum. For additional questions or issues related to VDOT University, please submit an email to VDOTUniversity@VDOT.Virginia.gov. For questions or issues related to the environmental certification modules, please contact environmental.certification@vdot.virginia.gov.