The Amtrak Police Department APD is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of over 30 million customers traveling to more than 500 destinations in 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces, on more than 21,400 miles of routes.

Amtrak maintains its own dedicated Amtrak Police Department (APD) because it operates as a federal entity across 46 states, D.C., and several Canadian provinces, crossing thousands of local jurisdictions. Having a specialized force allows for a unified security strategy across 21,400 miles of track. These officers are "sworn" police with federal and state authority to investigate crimes occurring on trains, in stations, and along the railroad "right-of-way." Their primary role is counter-terrorism, passenger safety, and infrastructure protection. By 2026, the APD has grown to include over 450 personnel, including K-9 units trained in explosives detection. Because local police may not have the specific training for rail-specific emergencies or the jurisdiction to travel across state lines on a moving train, a dedicated national force is essential for transit security.