Although chosen by the President, Inspectors General are required to be selected based on integrity and ability, not political affiliation.

[1] The OIG carries out its mission by issuing audit reports, evaluations, and management advisories with findings and recommendations to improve program delivery and performance.

In fiscal year 2006, OIG issued 76 audit reports, which identified more than $893 million in financial recommendations.

This office is divided according to specific DOT program areas into four sub-offices: Aviation; Information Technology and Financial Management; Surface Transportation; and Acquisition and Procurement.

In May 2020, President Donald Trump nominated Eric Soskin, a senior trial attorney in the Department of Justice for the last 14 years.