Truckers Applaud FMCSA Plan Strengthening English-Proficiency Rules

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is considering making out-of-service orders for commercial drivers who fail to meet federal English-language proficiency requirements a permanent enforcement measure. The proposal has drawn support from trucking stakeholders and follows expanded enforcement efforts launched in 2025.

English-proficiency enforcement expanded

FMCSA said it reviewed roadside inspection records involving commercial drivers cited for failing to meet English-language proficiency requirements. The agency’s proposal would formalize the use of out-of-service orders in those cases rather than treating the enforcement measure as temporary.

Following an April 2025 executive order, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance added English-language proficiency violations to its out-of-service criteria. The change took effect June 25, 2025.

Federal requirements generally require commercial drivers to understand and communicate in English well enough to complete required records, respond to official inquiries and understand traffic signs and signals.

CDL licensing actions

The Department of Transportation also intensified scrutiny of how commercial driver’s licenses are issued. In late August, the department shut down 110 CDL driving schools after linking them to thousands of failed English-proficiency results, according to the information provided.

The enforcement effort includes drivers holding non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses. Those licenses are available to eligible foreign nationals who have lawful status and federal work authorization and who meet the requirements for a standard CDL, including testing and English-language proficiency requirements.

Industry response

Truckers have expressed support for making the out-of-service policy permanent. Advocates of Dalilah’s Law, proposed federal legislation that would require all CDL holders to demonstrate English proficiency, also continue to press for broader nationwide enforcement.

FMCSA’s proposal would provide a permanent framework for removing drivers from service when inspectors determine that they do not meet the applicable English-language requirements. The agency’s review and rulemaking process will determine the final policy.