English Proficiency Order Shakes Up Trucking: What Fleets Need to Know and Do Now
The White House just issued a powerful shake-up for the U.S. trucking industry.
On April 28, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “Enforcing Commonsense Rules of the Road for America’s Truck Drivers,” which directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to immediately reinstate and enforce English-language proficiency standards for commercial drivers. This move effectively reverses the relaxed enforcement policies that have been in place since 2016.
For trucking companies, especially those operating diverse and multilingual fleets, this rule isn’t just a compliance update — it's a high-risk operational shift that requires urgent action.
📜 What Does the Executive Order Require?
Under FMCSA regulations, all commercial drivers must be able to read and speak English well enough to:
Converse with the general public
Understand road signs and signals
Respond to law enforcement inquiries
Complete paperwork and inspections
Previously, drivers were not placed out of service for English proficiency violations thanks to 2016 guidance allowing tools like I-Speak cards and translation apps. That has now changed.
Key mandates under the executive order:
❌ Drivers not meeting English requirements must be placed out of service
🛑 FMCSA is ordered to revoke the 2016 leniency guidance within 60 days
📂 FMCSA will audit non-domiciled CDL holders for irregularities
📈 DOT must review and improve truckers’ working conditions (details TBD)
🚨 How This Impacts Trucking Companies
This order will have immediate, wide-ranging effects on fleet operations, HR policies, and compliance protocols. Here’s what companies need to prepare for:
🔎 Tighter Hiring Requirements
Carriers must now ensure all new hires pass internal ELP assessments. Recruiting non-native English speakers will require more vetting — and possibly, new training protocols.
🚧 Roadside Risk Increases
Expect more aggressive inspections focusing on a driver's English ability. Drivers who pass every mechanical and safety check could still be sidelined mid-route.
⏱️ Route Delays & Costly Downtime
Drivers placed out of service on the spot can create major disruptions — especially for time-sensitive or perishable shipments. This could affect delivery windows and client satisfaction.
🧑🏫 Refresher Training Becomes Essential
Carriers with diverse teams may need to implement language coaching or refresher materials to minimize future violations.
🌍 Licensing Audits on the Rise
The FMCSA will begin scrutinizing non-domiciled CDLs, raising the bar on documentation, authenticity, and interstate eligibility — especially for foreign-based fleets or contractors.
⚖️ Know the Legal Limits: ELP vs. Employment Law
Carriers need to be cautious not to overcorrect. Even with the FMCSA’s mandate, employment laws under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act still prohibit discrimination based on national origin or language unless directly job-related.
Also, ADA protections still apply to drivers who are deaf or hard of hearing, many of whom have FMCSA exemptions. Blanket language policies could violate federal protections.
🛑 For example, requiring all employees to speak only English at all times—even during breaks—could result in EEOC investigations or lawsuits.
🛡️ How Allcom Insurance Helps Fleets Stay Protected
When policy shifts put drivers — and operations — at risk, Allcom Insurance steps in to help trucking businesses adapt. With over a decade supporting carriers through regulation after regulation, we know how to insulate your fleet from exposure.
Allcom Insurance can help you:
🔍 Review your driver liability and downtime coverage
✅ Adjust policy limits for high-risk scenarios
📊 Forecast operational risk under evolving regulations
🤝 Access top-tier MGA and carrier programs for multilingual and cross-border fleets
📞 Final Takeaway: Get Ahead Before You’re Pulled Behind
With FMCSA enforcement only 60 days away, now is the time to evaluate your risk and compliance gaps. Whether your fleet is regional, long-haul, or cross-border, this policy change could result in real interruptions — unless you’re prepared.
Allcom Insurance is your partner in navigating this new reality, offering smart, customized coverage that keeps you rolling forward — no matter what D.C. decides next.
📞 Call 866-277-9049 or visit www.allcomins.com to start your policy review and safeguard your operation before the next roadside inspection puts your driver — and your cargo — out of service.