Compiles, analyzes, and makes accessible information on the Nation's transportation systems; collects information on intermodal transportation and other areas; and enhances the quality and effectiveness of DOT's statistical programs through research, development of guidelines, and promotion of improvements in data acquisition and use.

Collects and publishes statistical data on waterborne commerce and vessel operations in waterways, ports, and harbors of the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center maintains a database to respond to special requests for data and to produce monthly, quarterly, and annual products including the annual five-volume Waterborne Commerce of the U.S. that summarizes trips and tonnage by ports and waterways.

Collects data on aviation safety.

Collects, analyzes, and disseminates data on the Nation's highway system, including financing, travel, fuel consumption, vehicle registrations, highway system extent and safety, drivers licenses, and personal travel characteristics.

Collects and analyzes data on motor carriers and on commercial vehicle drivers and crashes.

Collects and disseminates data on the Nation's railroad system, including traffic, safety, and accident reports, such as intermodal safety data for the geographic information system, and information on grade crossings and inspections.

Maintains the primary database for statistics on the transit industry known as the National Transit Database. These data, which must be reported by every FTA formula grant recipient, are used to report to the Congress on the performance of the transit industry, to make transit service and investment planning decisions, and to apportion FTA formula funds. The FTA also collects and analyzes data related to safety and security, including drug and alcohol testing results of safety sensitive personnel.

Collects, maintains, and disseminates data on domestic and international transportation, vessel characteristics and itineraries, port facilities, shipbuilding and repair, ship values, financial reports and vessels' operating expenses, shipping activities, and maritime employment. MARAD also publishes reports on marine transportation and cruise passenger statistics, and conducts research on maritime issues.

Collects information on motor vehicle related accidents and fatalities and highway safety.

Collects, analyzes, and publishes data in support of the department's programs and policy initiatives. Statistical activities include monitoring competition in the airline and maritime industries, supporting international negotiations on aviation matters, and maintaining systems to provide grant information and financial assistance awards for DOT.

Collects data to monitor transportation of hazardous materials.