The Department of Transportation (DOT) was established by an act of Congress on October 15, 1966. The Department’s first official day of operation was April 1, 1967. The mission of the Department is to: Serve the United States by ensuring a fast, safe, efficient, accessible and convenient transportation system that meets our vital national interests and enhances the quality of life of the American people, today and into the future. (Source: www.transportation.gov/)