The Importance of English Proficiency for Commercial Drivers in the U.S.

In the world of commercial trucking, road safety is paramount. One often-overlooked
factor contributing to that safety is a driver’s ability to read, write, and communicate in
English. With a new executive order reinforcing English proficiency requirements for
commercial drivers, the debate surrounding this issue has resurfaced—raising
questions about its impact on both safety and the trucking workforce.

Why English Proficiency Matters

Operating a commercial vehicle isn’t just about knowing how to drive—it’s about being
able to effectively navigate the rules and regulations that ensure a safe journey. A driver
must be able to:

• Read and comprehend road signs, hazard warnings, and traffic instructions.
• Communicate with law enforcement and emergency responders during inspections or incidents.
• Complete and understand official paperwork, including logs, reports, and compliance documents.

Without basic proficiency in English, drivers may struggle to follow important safety
protocols, creating risks for themselves and others on the road.

New Regulations & Their Impact

Recently, an executive order reinstated stricter enforcement of English proficiency
standards for commercial drivers. Under the new rules:

• The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has updated its criteria to place drivers out of service if they cannot sufficiently understand English.
• Starting June 25, drivers unable to meet proficiency requirements may face removal from the road.
• Supporters of the mandate argue that English proficiency is a non-negotiable safety requirement, ensuring smoother communication with officials and preventing avoidable road hazards.
• Critics, however, raise concerns that the policy could marginalize immigrant drivers, further complicating hiring efforts in an industry already facing challenges in recruiting new drivers.

The Workforce Challenge

The trucking industry relies on a diverse workforce to keep supply chains moving. Many
trucking companies recruit non-native English speakers to fill essential positions, and enforcing stricter language requirements may reduce the pool of available drivers. While
safety should remain the top priority, balancing regulatory enforcement with workforce
sustainability is a challenge the industry must navigate carefully.

Looking Ahead

As these regulations take effect, companies, policymakers, and drivers must work
together to find solutions that maintain safety standards while ensuring fairness for all.
Resources for improving language skills, structured training programs, and clear
guidelines can help drivers meet the requirements without unnecessary hardship.
Ultimately, English proficiency remains a crucial factor in keeping America’s highways
safe. While the discussion continues, one thing is certain: ensuring all drivers can
effectively communicate on the road benefits everyone.

Craig Safety Technologies: Supporting Safety & Compliance

At Craig Safety Technologies, we are committed to enhancing safety and compliance
in the trucking industry. Our Compliance Safety Manager™ software helps employers
streamline hiring and manage driver-related FMCSA regulations with ease. By
simplifying compliance processes, we enable companies to stay ahead of regulatory
requirements while ensuring their drivers are equipped for success.
For more information on how Compliance Safety Manager™ can support your
business, contact us today!