49 C.F.R. § 212.203

(a) The track inspector is required, at a minimum, to be able to conduct independent inspections of track structures for the purpose of determining compliance with the Track Safety Standards (49 CFR part 213), to make reports of those inspections, and to recommend enforcement actions when appropriate.

(b) The track inspector is required, at a minimum, to have at least four years of recent experience in track construction or maintenance. A bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical specialization may be substituted for two of the four years of this experience requirement. Successful completion of the apprentice training program may be substituted for the four years of this experience requirement.

(c) The track inspector shall demonstrate the following specific qualifications:

(1) A comprehensive knowledge of track nomenclature, track inspection techniques, track maintenance methods, and track equipment;

(2) The ability to understand and detect deviations from:

(i) Track maintenance standards accepted in the industry;

(ii) The Track Safety Standards (49 CFR part 213); and

(iii) Railroad Workplace Safety Standards (49 CFR part 214).

(3) Knowledge of operating practices and vehicle/track interaction sufficient to understand the safety significance of deviations and combinations of deviations; and

(4) Specialized knowledge of the requirements of the Track Safety Standards, including the remedial action required to bring defective track into compliance with the standards.