FMCSA is proposing a new federal rule that would formally make failure to meet English-language proficiency requirements an out-of-service violation for commercial drivers. The proposal would turn the agency’s current enforcement policy into federal regulation.
Commercial drivers are already required to understand road signs, answer officials’ questions and communicate sufficiently in English. Under the proposal, drivers who fail an English-proficiency roadside assessment could be placed out of service, with limited exceptions for certain operations in U.S.-Mexico border commercial zones.
FMCSA says codifying the policy would create more consistent enforcement nationwide. Public comments on the proposed rule are open through October 9, 2026.
Source: TruckersReport