Who issues a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)?

The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This program was implemented as a security measure to ensure that individuals who have access to secure areas of the nation's maritime facilities and vessels are vetted and approved. The TSA is part of the Department of Homeland Security and is responsible for the security of transportation systems within the United States.

The TWIC serves as a biometric credential that verifies the identity of maritime workers and allows them access to secure areas, helping to bolster overall maritime security. The TSA conducts background checks, which include a criminal history records check and a security threat assessment, before issuing the credential. This process is essential for protecting the transportation infrastructure from security risks.

Other options represent organizations that have different roles: the US Coast Guard (USCG) oversees maritime safety, security, and environmental protection but does not issue TWICs; the FBI conducts investigations and background checks but is not the issuing authority for credentials; and the Department of Transportation (DOT) oversees national transportation policy but does not directly issue the TWIC. Thus, the TSA is the correct organization tasked with issuing the TWIC.