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DOT/FRA RIN: 2130-AD51 Publication ID: 2026 
Title: Permitting Use of Virtual Simulation for Periodic Refresher Training on Brake Systems 
Abstract:

FRA proposes to allow railroads to use three-dimensional virtual simulation to satisfy the hands-on portion of periodic refresher training under FRA’s brake system training requirements, consistent with waivers FRA has granted to date.  FRA has found that such virtual training provides employees with randomized scenarios that may not be readily available for hands-on training and real-time feedback on performance of duties.

 
Agency: Department of Transportation(DOT)  Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant 
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Final Rule Stage 
Major: No  Unfunded Mandates: No 
EO 14192 Designation: Deregulatory 
CFR Citation: 49 CFR part 232     (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)
Legal Authority: 49 U.S.C. 20102 and 20103, 20107, 20133, 20141, 20301 to 20303, 20306, 21301 and 20302, 21304    28 U.S.C. 2461, note    and 49 CFR 1.89   
Legal Deadline:  None
Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
NPRM  07/01/2025  90 FR 28667   
NPRM Comment Period End  09/02/2025 
Analyzing Comments  07/00/2026 
Final Rule  08/00/2026 
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No  Government Levels Affected: None 
Federalism: No 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No 
RIN Data Printed in the FR: No 
Agency Contact:
Kathryn Gresham
Attorney Adviser
Department of Transportation
Federal Railroad Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590
Phone:202 577-7142
Email: kathryn.gresham@dot.gov