The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced a significant regulatory change that impacts all trucking companies and commercial drivers operating in interstate commerce. As of May 21, 2025, a new two-step English Language Proficiency (ELP) assessment is being enforced during roadside inspections.
What Does the New FMCSA Rule Require?
The new regulation aims to ensure that all commercial drivers in the U.S. are able to speak and understand English fluently in order to improve safety, reduce miscommunication on the road, and promote better interactions with law enforcement.
Step 1: Verbal English Interview
During a standard roadside inspection, law enforcement will initiate a conversation in English only. Drivers are expected to understand instructions and respond appropriately without the help of:
- Interpreters
- Translation apps
- Pre-recorded responses
Note: Drivers who cannot communicate effectively in English will be cited immediately and placed out-of-service (OOS) on the spot.
Step 2: Road Sign Recognition
Drivers who pass the initial verbal interview will then be assessed on their ability to read and understand U.S. traffic signs, including detours, construction notices, and digital alerts.
Failure to understand traffic signage may result in citations or further penalties.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Immediate OOS orders
- Possible disqualification from operating in interstate commerce
- Citations under federal safety regulations
Who Is Exempt?
Drivers operating exclusively within U.S.–Mexico commercial border zones are exempt from the OOS component of the rule but will still be cited for ELP violations.
Enforcement Timeline
While the rule took effect on May 21, 2025, full enforcement begins on June 25, 2025, following an executive order reinstating ELP as a disqualifying violation.
Why This Matters to Fleets and Carriers
Trucking companies must now ensure that all drivers, especially new hires, meet English proficiency requirements. This means revisiting hiring policies, offering language support if necessary, and staying informed on FMCSA regulatory updates.
Stay Compliant: JED Trucking supports safe and legal driving practices. We recommend that all drivers review basic English communication skills and familiarize themselves with commonly used U.S. traffic signage.
