New Executive Order Enforces English Proficiency for U.S. Truck Drivers

On April 28, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order mandating the enforcement of existing federal laws requiring English proficiency for commercial truck drivers in the United States. The order emphasizes that drivers must be able to read and understand traffic signs, communicate with officials at checkpoints, and converse with the general public in English. This move aims to enhance road safety by ensuring clear communication between drivers and authorities.

Key Provisions of the Executive Order:

• Rescinding previous guidance. The order directs the Secretary of Transportation to rescind the 2016 guidance titled “English Language Proficiency Testing and Enforcement Policy” and issue new guidelines to ensure compliance with English proficiency requirements.
  
• Out-of-service criteria. Drivers found not meeting the English language proficiency standards may be placed out of service, preventing them from operating commercial vehicles until they comply.
  
• Review of non-domiciled CDLs. The Department of Transportation is tasked with reviewing non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) to identify irregularities and improve the effectiveness of current protocols.

Industry Response

Major trucking organizations, including the American Trucking Association (ATA) and the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), have expressed support for the enforcement of English proficiency standards, citing safety concerns and the need for effective communication on the road.

However, some industry stakeholders have raised concerns that the order may disqualify currently working drivers who initially received licensing without meeting the English standards, potentially affecting their livelihoods despite safe driving records.

What Should Truckers and Trucking Companies Do Now?

With the new executive order set to take effect on June 27, 2025, truckers and trucking companies should take immediate action to ensure compliance. For individual drivers, this means evaluating your current level of English proficiency, especially reading road signs, speaking with law enforcement, and handling paperwork in English. If needed, enroll in language courses or training programs tailored to commercial drivers. 

Trucking companies should review their current workforce to identify drivers at risk of non-compliance and offer support, such as access to English language instruction or testing resources. It’s also crucial for fleet managers to communicate these changes clearly to all drivers and update hiring practices and compliance checks to include English proficiency standards moving forward. Proactive steps now will help avoid disruptions and potential penalties later.