On April 28, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a new executive order titled "Enforcing Commonsense Rules of the Road for America’s Truck Drivers." This order brings English proficiency back into focus for commercial truck drivers across the country.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) are now tasked with enforcing an existing rule: truck drivers must be able to read, write, and speak English well enough to safely hit the road. It also wipes out the 2016 guidance that made enforcement more relaxed.

What’s in the Executive Order?

Here's the quick breakdown:

• Interstate drivers must prove they can read, speak, and understand English.
• Intrastate drivers might soon face the same rules, depending on state adoption.
• The DOT will review CDL issuance for non-U.S. citizens.
• Non-compliant drivers can now be placed out of service immediately.

There's no fancy new test coming. Instead, expect real-world checks: roadside inspections, CDL skills tests, and everyday interactions with law enforcement and the public.

If you can't understand road signs, follow directions, or fill out basic reports? You could be pulled off the road.

Why Now?

According to Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, serious crashes linked to language barriers pushed the administration to act. The goal is simple: a common operational language on America’s roads.

Groups like the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) back the move, saying it’s common sense — drivers need to clearly understand signage, traffic patterns, and emergency situations to keep everyone safe.

What It Means for Truckers and Carriers

• If you drive interstate: You must meet the English rule now. No excuses.
• If you drive intrastate: Watch your state’s next moves — changes could be coming.
• If you’re a carrier: Double-check your drivers’ English skills or risk fines and downtime.

This is a wake-up call to invest in communication skills. Training programs and refresher courses could make all the difference.

Drivers failing basic English checks will be placed out of service — meaning you’re parked until you get compliant.

Final Thoughts

At Trucker Ally, we’re all about keeping drivers informed, ready, and moving forward. Stronger English skills don’t just keep you legal — they make the roads safer for everyone.

We’ll keep tracking FMCSA updates and share what you need to know as enforcement rules take shape over the next 60 days.

Sources:

• White House Executive Order – Enforcing Commonsense Rules of the Road for America’s Truck Drivers
• FMCSA Regulations - 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2)
• Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Briefing

Stay sharp, stay compliant — and keep America’s wheels turning.

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