What It Means
NHTSA is a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. It sets and enforces Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), investigates safety defects, manages vehicle recalls, rates vehicles for crashworthiness (NCAP), and collects crash data. NHTSA was created by the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "NHTSA" mean?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration — the federal agency responsible for vehicle safety standards and recall enforcement.
Why does NHTSA matter for vehicle safety?
NHTSA is a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. It sets and enforces Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), investigates safety defects, manages vehicle recalls, rates vehicles for crashworthiness (NCAP), and collects crash data. NHTSA was created by the National Traffic and M...
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About This Data
Definitions based on NHTSA standards, the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, and federal enforcement guidance. See our privacy policy.