(a) This subpart prescribes the minimum qualification requirements for State railroad safety inspectors, including journeyman and inspector apprentices. A State may establish more stringent or additional requirements for its employees.

(b) An inspector shall be recognized as qualified under this part by the State agency and the Associate Administrator prior to assuming the responsibilities of the position.

(c) Each inspector shall be a bona fide employee of the State agency.

(d) Each inspector shall demonstrate:

(e) Each inspector shall demonstrate a thorough knowledge of:

(1) Railroad rules, practices, record systems, and terminology common to operating and maintenance functions; and

(2) The scope and major requirements of all of the Federal railroad safety laws and regulations.

(f) In addition to meeting the requirements of this section, each inspector and apprentice inspector shall meet the applicable requirements of §§ 212.203 through 212.229 of this subpart.