Washington, D.C. (WDNews) – A new federal trucking regulation that took effect Wednesday, June 25, 2025, is sparking both support and concern among drivers.
The executive order, signed by President Donald Trump in April, requires commercial truckers to demonstrate English proficiency during roadside inspections or be placed out of service. The regulation also prohibits the use of translators, smartphones, or any communication aids during inspections.
This policy reverses a 2016 rule change under the Obama administration that allowed non-English-speaking drivers to continue operating with only a citation. Under the reinstated policy, truckers who can’t meet the language requirement could now lose their commercial license entirely.
While some in the trucking industry support the move, saying it improves safety by ensuring drivers can read signs and follow instructions, others are worried about the impact.
One local dock handler at a local factory told WDNews that she has an additional reason for supporting the law.
“We have a hard time communicating with non English speaking drivers, it raises safety concerns for everyone around,” she said. “In addition, the entire job can come to a halt, slowing the process and production at the facility while we stop to translate instructions or needs.”
Truckers who learned English as a second language say the rule puts their livelihoods at risk—especially if they have heavy accents or rely on tools to help communicate. Without the ability to use translation aids during inspections, many fear being unfairly penalized despite being safe, experienced drivers.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration will begin enforcing the rule at weigh stations and during regular inspections across the country.
