US mandates English tests for commercial drivers

Published 21 Feb, 2026 02:55pm 1 min read
– File Photo
– File Photo

The United States will require commercial driver’s license tests for truck and bus drivers to be taken in English, expanding federal safety measures in the transportation sector.

According to the Associated Press, the administration of President Donald Trump has stepped up efforts to tighten safety standards and remove unqualified drivers from the roads.

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the measure, saying drivers must understand English under federal requirements to read road signs and communicate with law enforcement.

He noted that Florida has already begun conducting license tests in English.

Several states currently allow tests in other languages, though drivers must show English proficiency.

California has offered testing in 20 languages.

Duffy said some states hired private companies to administer exams, but failed to ensure proper enforcement of driving and language standards.

The Transportation Department recently closed 557 driving schools over safety violations.

Officials have also increased scrutiny following a fatal accident last August involving a truck driver who was not authorised to be in the United States.

Federal authorities said 8,215 inspections were conducted during a recent campaign, with around 500 drivers disqualified for lacking English proficiency.

More than 600 drivers in California were removed from the roads after initial resistance to enforcing the language requirement.

Officials said the next phase will target fraudulent trucking companies and ensure states fully comply with commercial licensing regulations.

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