Certification

Ensuring systems work together for passengers

Certification is a core ITSO service that ensures products and systems operate securely, reliably and interoperably within the ITSO environment. By verifying that solutions from different suppliers conform to the ITSO Specification, certification enables consistent integration across schemes, operators and regions.

For suppliers, certification is the formal assessment of a product, device or system against the ITSO Specification. For scheme operators and authorities, it provides assurance that procured equipment and systems meet the nationally recognised standard.

What Certification provides

Interoperable assurance

ITSO-certified products work reliably across all certified equipment nationwide.

Security and compliance

ITSO security assessment protects transaction data, prevents fraud and ensures reliable performance.

Operator Peace of mind

Certification enables multi-supplier choice without the risk of incompatibility or vendor lock-in.

Consistency for passengers

Certified devices behave predictably, enabling a seamless, connected passenger experience.

Certification
Why certification is important

ITSO certification underpins the integrity, security, and interoperability of the entire ITSO ecosystem. By ensuring that cards, devices, applications, and back-office systems operate consistently, certification enables seamless travel for passengers and reliable operation across schemes, operators, and regions.

It provides a shared assurance mechanism that protects scheme owners, operators, suppliers, and passengers alike - reducing risk in multi-supplier environments and maintaining trust in the live ITSO environment.
Certification
Our testing approach

To gain ITSO certification, equipment and solutions undergo a rigorous, structured testing process designed to ensure that their products operate to standard within the ITSO environment.

Testing is carried out across three key stages:

Compliance against the ITSO Specification to confirm that all technical requirements, behaviours, and data structures are implemented correctly.

Interoperability against relevant certified equipment and systems within the ITSO environment to ensure they operate seamlessly as part of a wider, multi-supplier network..

End to End Security checks to ensure solutions meet ITSO’s security requirements.
Certification
Ongoing assurance and compliance

Products that meet all requirements are issued with an ITSO Certificate of Compliance, confirming that they are approved for use within the live ITSO ecosystem.

ITSO certification is not a one-off milestone. Certified products and systems are subject to ongoing oversight to ensure they remain compliant as technologies, versions and standards evolve.

Through continuous monitoring and periodic review, ITSO helps ensure that certified solutions continue to operate safely and reliably within the live ITSO environment - maintaining trust for scheme operators, suppliers and passengers over time.
Certification
Preparing for testing

Whether you are a new supplier preparing to certify your first device or an existing member expanding your product portfolio, ITSO provides structured certification support.

Our team works directly with members to guide them through the relevant parts of the ITSO Specification, clarify test requirements, and answer technical questions throughout the process. We support suppliers from early engagement and readiness assessment through testing, evidence submission and entry into live operation.

Certification is further supported by ITSO’s compliance and test management tools, which help structure testing activities, capture evidence, and provide consistent assurance across a wide range of ITSO products and systems.

Apply for Testing and Certification