Published by Charles Cain Group | Trucking Compliance News

President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order focused on strengthening English language requirements for CDL holders — an issue that has technically been on the books since the 1930s, but has seen limited enforcement until now.

Under this order, if a commercial driver is stopped during an inspection or traffic stop and cannot demonstrate basic English proficiency, they may be placed out of service immediately. This could result in impacts to the driver’s DOT record, employer CSA scores, and operating ability.

State Trooper conducting a routine traffic stop with a semi-truck driver on a highway.

📚 Quick Facts: English Language Requirement for CDL Drivers

The Old Rule (Since the 1930s):

Federal law required interstate truck drivers to read and speak English sufficiently.
Drivers needed to understand highway signs, respond to officials, and communicate with the public.
Codified today under 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2).
Enforcement was inconsistent — many roadside inspections did not actively test language ability.

The New Executive Order (2025):

Strict enforcement: Officers can now immediately issue an out-of-service order if a driver cannot demonstrate English proficiency during a stop.
Direct impact: Affects a driver’s CDL standing and employer CSA scores.
Compliance is mandatory for all interstate drivers — no exceptions based on past practices.

✅ Bottom Line

Even though the rule isn’t new, how it’s enforced is. If you operate under a CDL in the U.S., you must be prepared to speak and read English well enough to pass official roadside encounters.

What This Means for Drivers and Carriers

Heightened roadside enforcement of English language skills.
Immediate out-of-service orders for non-compliant drivers.
Stricter hiring pressures for carriers — language proficiency will become a higher priority.
Potential CSA score impacts for carriers with non-compliant drivers.

Industry Reactions

As expected, reactions across the trucking community are mixed:

Some see it as a long-overdue focus on roadway communication and safety.
Others worry about the impact on hardworking immigrant drivers who may meet every other safety standard but struggle with conversational English under pressure.

What Do You Think?

Is this order a necessary return to safety fundamentals?
Or could it create challenges for drivers who otherwise operate safely and responsibly?

👉 Comment below and let’s talk about it — we want to hear your take!

🚛 Need Help Staying Compliant?

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If you need help understanding the latest rules, keeping your fleet protected, or finding the right insurance to stay on the road, Charles Cain Group is here for you.

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