Trump's Executive Order Mandates English Proficiency for Truck Drivers

Strengthening Road Safety Through Language

President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order on April 28, directing the Department of Transportation to enforce English proficiency requirements for commercial truck drivers. This move reverses a 2016 Obama-era policy that had relaxed enforcement, allowing drivers who lacked sufficient English skills to operate without penalty. The administration emphasizes that this order is about ensuring safety on America’s highways, where clear communication is vital for truckers interacting with law enforcement, border patrol, and other officials.

The order mandates that drivers must read and speak English well enough to understand traffic signs, communicate with authorities, and follow directions. It directs Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to rescind the 2016 guidance within 60 days and establish stricter inspection procedures. Drivers who fail to meet these standards will be placed out of service, preventing them from operating until they comply.

A Common-Sense Safety Measure

The White House highlights that motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death in the United States, claiming over 120 lives daily. The administration argues that non-English-speaking drivers pose a risk, as they may struggle to read road signs or respond to emergency instructions. 'President Trump believes that English is a non-negotiable safety requirement for professional drivers,' a White House document states, emphasizing the need for truckers to communicate effectively at checkpoints and weight stations.

Trucking organizations have praised the decision. Todd Spencer, president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), representing 150,000 truckers, said, 'Basic English skills are essential for reading critical road signs, understanding emergency instructions, and interacting with law enforcement. Road signs save lives—but only when they’re understood.' This support underscores the belief that the order restores a practical standard for roadway safety.

Enhancing Trucker Standards and Conditions

Beyond language proficiency, the executive order tasks Secretary Duffy with reviewing the authenticity of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to ensure only qualified individuals operate commercial vehicles. This includes examining state-issued licenses for non-residents, addressing concerns about fraudulent or improperly granted credentials. The administration aims to protect the integrity of the trucking industry, which it calls 'the backbone of our economy.'

The order also directs the Department of Transportation to explore additional measures to improve truckers’ working conditions. This could involve reducing regulatory burdens or enhancing enforcement actions to support drivers. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted, 'There’s a lot of communication problems between truckers on the road with federal officials and local officials as well, which obviously is a public safety risk.'

Building on a Broader Vision

This executive order builds on President Trump’s earlier action in March, when he designated English as the official language of the United States. That decision aimed to promote national unity and streamline government operations. The trucking order aligns with this goal, reinforcing English as a practical necessity for industries critical to America’s economy and safety.

Shannon Everett, co-founder of American Truckers United, expressed gratitude for the administration’s focus on safety, stating, 'This will be a huge step forward in protecting our roadways.' Similarly, Dan Horvath, vice president of regulatory and safety policy at the American Trucking Associations, thanked the administration for addressing uneven enforcement, hoping for 'an objective, consistent, and effective enforcement standard.'

The trucking industry, responsible for transporting goods nationwide, faces intense demands. President Trump’s order reflects a commitment to supporting truckers by ensuring they are equipped to navigate America’s roads safely and efficiently. By prioritizing clear communication, the administration seeks to reduce accidents and strengthen the industry’s foundation.