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The industry is experiencing changes related to English Language Proficiency evaluations for commercial drivers, let’s understand the current legislation governing this matter.
English language proficiency ranked among the ten main concerns of the trucking industry in 2025, according to a study published by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI). This issue has gained greater relevance in recent months, following Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy’s announcement in May regarding the proper implementation of regulations aimed at verifying whether drivers meet English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements. The matter has since gained momentum, with new regulations being introduced or reinstated.
Citing arguments that highways have become less safe, and after several fatal accidents involving drivers with pending immigration status, the ELP evaluation for truck drivers has taken on increasing importance.
As the industry continues to experience numerous changes and new measures related to ELP evaluations for commercial drivers, it is essential to understand the current legislation governing this matter. Below, we explore more about these regulations, based on information from LandLine.
English Language Proficiency (ELP) regulations and legislation
SAFE Drivers Act
The most recent update is the SAFE Drivers Act, introduced in October by Republican Representative Pat Harrigan of North Carolina. The bill, HR5800, would require the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to implement standardized testing during the issuance and renewal of Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) across all states, without exception. Through this test, it would be determined whether an applicant possesses the ability to read, speak, and understand traffic signs and instructions before being granted a CDL.
WEIGH Act
The HR5177, or Weigh Station Oversight to Intercept and Guard Highways (WEIGH) Act, was introduced in September by Representative Byron Donalds, Republican from Florida. This bill mandates that all weigh stations operate as inspection areas, allowing the U.S. Department of Transportation to ensure that states enforce English proficiency requirements and review commercial driver’s licenses for any irregularities.
Safe Commercial Driver’s License Act
The Safe Commercial Driver’s License Act would require that all CDL testing be conducted exclusively in English to ensure applicants possess adequate language proficiency. In addition, the bill would grant the Secretary of the Department of Transportation authority to suspend or revoke a state’s ability to issue CDLs to non-domiciled individuals who fail to comply with federal standards.
This bill also stipulates that an individual must hold a standard driver’s license for at least one year before becoming eligible to apply for a CDL.
Commercial Motor Vehicle English Language Proficiency Act
Similar to the SAFE Drivers Act, the S2114 bill would require drivers to pass an English proficiency test before obtaining a CDL, ensuring highway safety. Introduced in June, this proposal laid the groundwork for subsequent bills addressing English language proficiency requirements.
Connor Act
The Connor Act initiated this wave of new legislation and proposals when it was introduced in May by Representative David Taylor, Republican from Ohio. The law requires commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders to communicate in English well enough to drive safely.
The bill codified an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in April, which mandates compliance with English proficiency regulations. The Connor Act also requires drivers to demonstrate basic English knowledge before obtaining a CDL.
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