How do I log in and access the Blackboard Learning System as an FHWA employee?

If you are an FHWA employee, please contact NHICustomerService@dot.gov to request that your profile be manually created, ensuring free access to NHI training.

How do I access Blackboard as a non-FHWA user?

If you are a non-FHWA participant, you’ll need to create accounts with both Login.gov and Blackboard to explore training opportunities, manage your courses and records, and access available resources. Be sure to use the same email to sync the accounts. Blackboard will generate a temporary password which you can update immediately.

If you already have a Login.gov account, you can use your existing credentials to access or create your Blackboard account.

Are there guides to help me with the Blackboard and Login.gov account creation process?

Yes. A step-by-step guide is available.

How to Create a Login.gov Account and a Blackboard Account

FAQs for Creating a Login.gov Account (Coming soon)
FAQs for Creating a Blackboard Account (Coming soon)
FAQs for Accessing the NHI Learner’s Dashboard (Coming soon)

Can I still use the old Content Management System (CMS) hosted on NHI’s website to access trainings?

CMS is no longer available to the public. New training opportunities and records should be managed within Blackboard, a more dynamic, user-friendly system for our learning community.

Need help retrieving records before Blackboard? Contact NHICustomerService@dot.gov.

What if I forgot my Blackboard password?

1. Go to secure.login.gov and click “Forgot your password?”
2. Enter the email address you used to register your Login.gov account, then click “Continue.”
3. Check your email for a message from Login.gov and click “Reset your password.” This will redirect you back to the Login.gov site.
4. Follow the password requirements and click “Change password.” You’re all set!

What if I receive a “Sign on Error” message when I try to access my Blackboard account?

Contact our Customer Service team at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov for assistance.

What is an Instructor-Led Training (ILT)?

ILTs are conducted in person, in a traditional classroom setting. ILT sessions, also known as sections in Blackboard, are held at physical locations nationwide and led by qualified instructors.

What is a Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT)?

Virtual Instructor-Led Training occurs online in a live, virtual classroom, facilitated by an instructor. These sessions, or sections in Blackboard, are scheduled at specific times and may include blended learning components, such as self-paced exercises. Each participant must log in individually to receive credit.

What is a Web-Based Training (WBT)? 

Web-Based Training is self-paced and available online anytime through Blackboard. Learners have one (1) year from the date of registration to complete the course. Final exams may be applied for a recorded score.  

Who can enroll in training sessions, otherwise known as sections, on Blackboard?

NHI courses are open to Federal, State, local, and international transportation professionals, as well as members of the public with an interest in transportation. NHI works with national and international entities to develop and administer education and training programs of instruction for a global audience engaged or to be engaged in surface transportation work of interest to the United States.

How do I enroll in a course?

Create accounts for both Blackboard and Login.gov to access NHI training. FHWA employees should contact NHICustomerService@dot.gov to request that their profile be created. Visit NHI’s Training page to learn more about setting up your synced Blackboard and Login.gov accounts and exploring a wide range of technical training opportunities led by subject matter experts from across the country.

Once registered, log in to Blackboard to access the expansive Course Catalog and sign up for courses. Search for courses by entering the course number, program area, or keyword related to your needs, and then check out when you’re ready!

Why did NHI switch to the Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS)?

NHI adopted Blackboard to enhance your learning experience and help you excel in your work. Participants will benefit from flexible and interactive communication with instructors and peers, streamlined course registration, access to critical learning tools, and simplified management of transcripts, certificates, and Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

When is the last day I can enroll in a course?

FHWA participants must register fifteen (15) business days in advance. For all other participants, registration closes three (3) business days before the course start date.

Can I purchase or enroll in a training for someone else?

Each participant must enroll individually to receive course credits by selecting to pay by credit card via Pay.gov in Blackboard. However, if a host organization opts to pay for their staff’s registration, the individual may select to pay via invoice by providing the credit card holder’s name and email address.

What equipment do I need for a WBT or VILT?

You’ll need a computer with internet access to log into Blackboard, a microphone, and speakers. It is also recommended to wear a headset, especially for live VILTs.

Do I have to complete a WBT in one sitting?

No. You can return to the course as often as you like within one year of registration—your progress will be saved automatically in Blackboard.

Can I retake the final exam for a WBT?

Yes, for some WBTs. However, for course participants seeking to obtain certification through select trainings, only one attempt is allowed. If you need to retake a final exam, please contact us at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov for further assistance.

How can I find and filter training sections by interest?

Visit the NHI Course Catalog within Blackboard to explore a wide range of technical training opportunities for transportation professionals. Use the “Find a Course” search box or “Advanced Filters” to search by program area, delivery method, keyword, course code, or location.

Where can I find course descriptions?

Course descriptions are located in NHI’s Course Catalog. Click “View Offerings” for more details, including Continuing Education Units (CEUs) availability.

How do I access a course once I’m enrolled?

1) Log in to your Blackboard account. 
2) Click the “Access with Login.gov” button.
3) Select the “Sign in with Login.gov” button. Proceed with the sign in process.

FHWA employees with a Blackboard account will be able to log in with their PIV card through FAA MyAccess. Visit fhwanhi.geniussis.com/PublicWelcome.aspx to sign in. If you don’t have a Blackboard account, contact NHICustomerService@dot.gov to have an account created for you.

FAQs for Accessing the NHI Learner’s Dashboard (Coming soon)

What course materials are available?

NHI offers a variety of manuals, workbooks, practice worksheets, and guides designed to support continued learning. These materials are available to registered course participants in Blackboard and can be accessed in digital formats at the start of each section.

What if there are no available seats in a course?

You can register for a course of interest in Blackboard even when there are no available seats. You’ll be placed on the waitlist, which will be noted in a section designated for pending courses in the Learner Dashboard. Once someone cancels or if seats are added, the first person on the waitlist will automatically be enrolled in the course. We also encourage you to sign up for another session – also known as a section in Blackboard – if available.

How can I sign up to be notified when a course is scheduled?

You can subscribe to receive newsletters and alerts directly to your inbox. Choose the topics, program areas, or regions that matter most to you. Visit our subscription page to opt in or manage your preferences. We also encourage you to regularly visit the NHI Course Catalog for the latest course offerings, or contact the NHI Customer Service Team at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov with any questions.

My course modules aren’t loading. How can I resolve the issue?

Log out to clear your cache, following these steps. The preferred browser is Google Chrome:

1. Open the Google Chrome web browser. Click the three dots in the top right corner.
2. Select “More tools” then “Clear browsing data."
3. Choose a time range (ex. “All time”) to clear everything in your search history.
4. Check the boxes next to “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files."
5. Click “Clear data."

If you’re still experiencing issues or are using a different web browser, please take a screenshot of what you’re experiencing and send us an email at NHICustomerService@dot.gov. We’ll work to resolve your issues.

What if I don’t see any training sections listed in Blackboard for a course I’m interested in taking?

If there are no current offerings, check back later for updates, or contact NHI Customer Service at NHICustomerService@dot.gov for hosting opportunities.

Is it possible to access Blackboard on my mobile device?

Yes, but it is highly recommended to utilize your desktop computer or laptop for an optimum, streamlined user experience.
 

How do I pay for a training section?

Once your course is selected, go to your shopping cart in Blackboard to check out and make the payment via Pay.Gov.

NOTE: FHWA employees are not required to pay for NHI training.

Need help? Contact NHI at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov.

Stay tuned for updates in processes to come.   

What payment methods are accepted?

Payments may be made via: 1) Bank account (ACH); 2) PayPal; 3) Venmo; or 4) Debit or credit card.

Stay tuned for updates in payment processes to come.   

Will I receive an order confirmation?

Yes, you will receive a confirmation email after completing checkout.

What if I need to drop or withdraw from a course?

Log in to Blackboard. On your Learner Dashboard, select “Withdraw from Course,” then “Request New Drop.” Choose the course you wish to drop and select a reason from the dropdown.

• Instructor-Led Training: Cancel at least ten (10) business days in advance of the training start date to receive a refund. After that, full charges apply.
• Virtual Instructor-Led Training: If you cancel within seventy-two (72) hours of purchase, you may be eligible for a refund. Please note that credits toward future course enrollment are not managed within the Blackboard system. Any decision to provide a credit toward a future training in place of a refund is made on a case-by-case basis. For questions about refunds or credits, please contact Customer Service at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov.
• Web-Based Training: You can cancel at any time. All WBTs are free.

What if I need to withdraw from a course after it has begun?

Notify NHI (1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov), the Instructor, and the Host/Local Coordinator. Contact information for the Instructor and Local Coordinator can be found on your training section confirmation.

NOTE: Should you withdraw from a course, you will not receive Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or a refund once a course has started.

How do I receive a refund?

Instructor-Led Training (ILT): Cancel at least ten (10) business days before the start of the training to qualify. Refunds should appear within two billing cycles.

Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT) and Web-based Training (WBT): Cancel within seventy-two (72) hours of purchase to receive a refund. Refunds should appear within two billing cycles.

Contact NHI at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov for assistance.

Can someone attend a training in my place?

Yes, for Instructor-Led Training. Notify your Local Coordinator and contact NHI at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov with replacement details. It is imperative to reach out in advance to confirm if a substitution is possible and what steps need to be taken.

Substitutions are made from time to time due to scheduling conflicts, illness, or other reasons. If a substitution is possible, the new participant will need to register themselves in the course through Blackboard.

How can I view my course history and records?

Log in to Blackboard at fhwanhi.geniussis.com/PublicWelcome.aspx to manage your courses, track progress, and access training records through the Learner Dashboard.

To preserve records from the previous system, contact NHI Customer Service at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov for assistance obtaining transcripts or certificates. You can then upload your records into Blackboard within the “External Documents” section. When approved, the records will show up on the learner’s external files section within Blackboard. It’s essential to note that external files will not be included in the Blackboard transcript.

NOTE: Instructor-Led Training certificates are handed out in person upon completion of the course. For reprints, contact NHI Customer Service at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov.

What is the difference between an official transcript and an unofficial transcript?

Only official transcripts include earned Continuing Education Units (CEUs); unofficial transcripts do not.

How do I request an official transcript?

You can download your official transcript from Blackboard. If you’re seeking a pre-Blackboard transcript, contact the NHI Registrar at 1-877-558-6873 or NHIRegistrar@dot.gov. Be sure to include your full name, training date and location, and course number.

How long does it take to receive a course completion certificate in Blackboard?

It may take several hours before you receive your certificate. If you do not see your certificate in the Learner Dashboard, check back the following day and it should be there for you to access. If you need the certificate right away, contact Customer Service at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov.

Can I access pre-Blackboard records and training on the old Content Management System (CMS)?

No. Contact Customer Service at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov if you need assistance downloading your pre-Blackboard records.

What are CEUs and PDHs?

CEU stands for "Continuing Education Unit." NHI is approved as an Authorized Provider by the International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) to award CEUs for most of its technical training courses.

Some States and organizations use Professional Development Hours (PDHs) to track training. NHI does not issue PDHs directly, but agencies may convert CEUs into PDHs. For more information about CEUs and PDHs, visit the Course Credits and Transcripts page.

Can I earn CEUs and/or PDHs for participating in courses?

Yes. Most courses award Continuing Education Units (CEUs). For credit details, refer to the NHI Course Catalog. To receive CEUs, you must meet all attendance requirements and pass the course exam with a score of at least 70%.

To earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs), submit your official transcript, certificate of training, and course agenda to your licensing agency. If approved, the agency will convert your CEUs and/or course hours into PDHs—note that 1 CEU equals 10 PDHs. Each agency is encouraged to maintain its records.

To request an official transcript, contact 1-877-558-6873 or email NHIRegistrar@dot.gov. Transcripts display your complete course history and any CEUs awarded for CEU-accredited courses.

What is the ILT attendance policy?

Participants are required to attend 100 percent of the training to be eligible for CEUs. Full participation is essential for meeting course outcomes, especially when training supports professional licensure or certification.

In limited cases, a participant may be excused from up to 5% of the course due to circumstances beyond their control. In such cases, the participant must review the missed material with the instructor and complete any required make-up work. Missing more than 5% of the course will result in ineligibility for CEUs.

What is the Instructor Certification Program?

To instruct NHI courses in their area of expertise, instructors must complete the NHI Instructor Certification Program. To learn more, visit Instructor Resources.

Who is eligible to become a certified instructor?

FHWA employees who (a) have been approved for technical competency and subject matter expertise by their FHWA program office, (b) have completed the 420018 Instructor Development Course (3 days), and (c) are actively teaching courses.

FHWA contract instructors who (a) are part of an organization associated with an awarded delivery contract, (b) have completed the 420018 Instructor Development Course (3 days), and (c) are actively teaching courses.

For more information, search for course code 420018 in the NHI Course Catalog.

How do I become a certified instructor?

Step 1: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements outlined above. Contractors are required to become certified as part of a delivery task order, typically within 12 months of the task order's issuance. 

Step 2: NHI recommends becoming comfortable with delivering the material before requesting an observation. 

Step 3: You will virtually meet with a Master Trainer in advance of a certification observation visit to discuss the evaluation criteria, certification requirements, and allow ample time to ask questions.

Step 4: Submit a request for a certification observation visit to the Instructor Liaison at 703-235-0537 or NHIInstructorLiaison@dot.gov. A Master Trainer will observe at least six hours of live instruction over one or two days during a standard course and will provide constructive, real-time feedback, assessing performance and competencies in course delivery.

What if I do not receive my instructor certification?

If certification is not granted after the initial observation, a self-improvement plan will be developed. This may include mentoring or retaking the 420018 Instructor Development Course. Once the plan is successfully completed, you may request a second observation.

Do NHI instructors need recertification?

Instructor performance is reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with NHI core competencies. Instructors who have not been active for an extended period may be required to retake the Instructor Development Course or complete a recertification process before resuming instruction. The length of "inactive" time that triggers this requirement may vary and will be determined by NHI on a case-by-case basis.

How do I get started?

First, reach out to NHI Customer Service at NHICustomerService@dot.gov to start the host approval process. A training hosting agreement will be provided. After the hosting agreement paperwork has been signed, it should be returned to Customer Service, who will then notify the sender when their role has been updated in Blackboard. This takes at least one (1) business day to turnaround upon receiving the request and signed documentation.

To host a training, you must have both Login.gov and Blackboard accounts synced to access hosting tools and resources.

Accessing Blackboard differs based on your affiliation. If you are an FHWA employee, please contact NHICustomerService@dot.gov to request that your profile be manually created to enable access to free host tools in Blackboard.

If you are a non-FHWA participant, you’ll need to create both Login.gov and Blackboard accounts to explore hosting opportunities and access a range of resources. A step-by-step guide on how to set up your Blackboard and Login.gov accounts is available.

How do I request to host an NHI training?

Once you’re approved to host an NHI training, log in to Blackboard.

1. From the Host Dashboard, click your name in the top-right corner.
2. Select “Log in as Learner” to access the Learner Dashboard.
3. Click “Browse Catalog” from the left-hand menu.
4. Select the course you’d like to host and click “Host Course” at the bottom of the course profile.
5. Complete the Host Request Form and click “Save.”
6. The Administrative Team and Course Registrar will review your request.
7. You will receive a confirmation email, followed by a message indicating whether your request has been approved or declined.

Stay tuned for updates in processes to come.   

What is the Local Coordinator’s role?

If the host cannot serve as the primary point of contact, the host may designate a "Local Coordinator." The Local Coordinator will coordinate logistics with NHI, instructors, and participants, and their contact information will appear in confirmation emails.

What if I don’t know the exact date for my course when I request to host a training?

In Blackboard, you can enter estimated dates when submitting your request. The NHI Scheduler will follow up to confirm the final training date. Once confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email with the training section details.

How do I find a course to host?

1. Log in to Blackboard.
2. Click your name in the top-right corner of the Host Dashboard.
3. Select “Login as Learner.”
4. From the Learner Dashboard, select “Browse Catalog.”

You can search by program area, keyword, course type, or other filters. Once you find a course, click “Host Course” and complete the form.

Stay tuned for updates in processes to come.   

How much does it cost to host a training?

Each course lists a per-participant fee in its description. The host is charged based on the number of enrolled participants.

• Hosts must meet the course’s minimum enrollment for the training to be offered.
• Hosts are charged for unfilled seats if the minimum isn’t met.
• Public seats, which include non-FHWA participants from both the public and private sectors, count toward the minimum; FHWA seats do not.
• Hosts are not charged for FHWA participants or instructor expenses.

Note: FHWA participants cannot receive host-provided amenities (e.g., snacks, beverages) unless they pay the cash value directly to the host organization.

How do hosts handle FHWA seats?

Each course reserves three (3) seats for FHWA employees until fifteen (15) business days before the training.

• NHI will notify hosts when FHWA seats are filled.
• Hosts receive a final list of FHWA attendees before the course begins.
• Unused FHWA seats may be converted into public seats by contacting NHI at 1-877-558-6873 or NHICustomerService@dot.gov.

NOTE: The total maximum number of seats available includes both public and FHWA participants. For instance, if 30 seats are available, up to three (3) can be open to FHWA employees and 27 for non-FHWA participants. Hosts are not charged for FHWA personnel who attend NHI trainings.

What are public seats?

Public seats, which include non-FHWA participants from both the public and private sectors, are available to individuals outside the hosting agency and count toward the course's minimum enrollment. These seats are listed on the course description page in Blackboard. Hosts can offer public seats by submitting the Host Request Form in Blackboard.

To adjust the number of public seats after submission, contact NHI at 1-877-558-6873 or email NHICustomerService@dot.gov. Please note that public seat registration closes three (3) business days before the course begins. 

Can NHI help promote my training if enrollment is low?

Yes. With adequate notice, NHI can increase marketing for the course to attract additional registrants. Suppose registration for a course is lower than anticipated, the host needs to contact NHI before the 15-business-day cancellation window to discuss a remedy, which could include promotional email communications from NHI. Other marketing opportunities with longer lead times include social media and e-blasts, but these require several weeks’ notice.

Can a host charge extra to cover costs like facility rental or refreshments?

Yes, a host may charge additional fees to cover the cost of hosting a training. However, FHWA employees are exempt from additional fees set by the host for materials or amenities provided at the host’s discretion.

Any additional fees not included in NHI’s pricing must be settled directly between the host and non-FHWA participants, without exception. NHI holds no responsibility towards the host and the participant for any financial obligation or settlement between the two parties.

What is the cancellation policy for hosts?

To cancel a course, contact NHI at 1-877-558-6873 or email NHICustomerService@dot.gov. A $1,500 cancellation fee applies if a course is canceled within fifteen (15) business days of its start date. If course materials were received, contact NHI to coordinate their return.

Hosts must notify all participants, including public enrollees. Contact NHI Customer Service to obtain a list of enrollees and their contact information. Confirmation that the registrants received the cancellation notice must be provided. Extra care should be taken to notify out-of-state participants to help avoid unnecessary travel.

What if the host must cancel a training due to weather or an emergency?

In the event of an emergency or weather-related cancellation, the cancellation fee does not apply. NHI follows the local host’s closure policy. When a course is canceled, the host must inform NHI immediately of the status and determine plans for the remainder of the course. The host must also notify all course enrollees and the instructor of the cancellation.

How do I start the NHI Instructor application process?

FHWA employees are welcome to self-nominate—complete the required paperwork and obtain approval from your first-line supervisor. Submit the form and your resume to NHIInstructorLiaison@dot.gov to begin the review and approval process.

Contractors must be a part of an organization associated with an awarded delivery contract to be considered for an NHI instructor position. The delivery contract Project Manager will notify the NHI Instructor Liaison and/or the Technical Program Manager of your interest in becoming an instructor and seek approval. 

Resumes undergo thorough review for subject matter expertise and relevance to course subject matter by an NHI Training Program Manager and the Program Office associated with the course(s) the applicant wants to instruct. 

Applicants may be required to audition based on Program Office requirements. 

What resources does NHI offer instructors?

NHI's 420018 Instructor Development Course (IDC) is available to all instructors as soon as they are approved. The 420054 IDC for Virtual Training is available for instructors who will be delivering Virtual Instructor-Led Trainings (VILTs). 

NHI also offers support materials, including the Learners First online handbook, which provides tools and techniques for engaging and practical instruction, as well as instructional best practices for Instructor-Led Training (ILT) and VILT. 

Visit the Instructor Resources section to learn more about how you can create dynamic and effective learning environments. 

Do I have to be a certified NHI instructor to teach a course?

No, but your technical qualifications must be approved by the FHWA Program Office. Within the first year of instructing, you must complete the 420018 Instructor Development Course (3 days) and then seek certification evaluation by an NHI Master Trainer. Search for course code 420018 in the NHI Course Catalog within Blackboard for more information.

What resources does NHI offer course developers?

NHI provides tools and support for developing Instructor-Led Training (ILT), Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT), and Web-Based Training (WBT). Visit Instructional Design Resources to learn more.