Internships

What You Need to Know

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has several internship opportunities, which are aimed at providing current high school, college, and recent college graduates with meaningful developmental and work experiences in the transportation industry. The overarching goal of DOT Internship Programs is to:

1. Provide a pipeline for attracting talented students with a passion for public service
2. Stimulate interest in pursuing a promising career and experience during their assigned placements throughout DOT.

Are you looking for an opportunity to gain valuable work experience, while pursuing your academic goals, career paths, and interests! DOT actively recruits students by using a variety of hiring flexibilities and special hiring authorities to attract, hire, and develop students.  View All Student Programs

Application Process

The application process for DOT internships may vary – depending on the organizational need for “unpaid” volunteer assignments and/or are subject to the availability of funding for “paid” internship opportunities. Successful candidates must demonstrate a genuine interest in creativity, innovation, engagement, public policy, governmental affairs, and business and/or community outreach and public service.
Eligibility Requirements - All candidates must be:

• A U.S. Citizen
• Eighteen years of age on or before the first day of the internship
• Enrolled in high school, vocational or trade, undergraduate or graduate program at a 2 to 4-year college or university
• Able to obtain or maintain a security clearance

For more information on DOT internships, visit Catalogue of DOT Internships

DOT Agencies

There are 13 DOT Operating Administrations that sponsor internships

1. Office of the Secretary of Transportation (OST)
2. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
3. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
4. Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
5. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
6. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
7. Office of Inspector General (OIG)
8. Maritime Administration (MARAD)
9. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)
10. Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA)
11. Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (SLS)
12. Surface Transportation Board (STB)
13. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)