Navigating New FMCSA English Proficiency Standards: A Compassionate Perspective from the Field

In May 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) introduced a new two-step process to assess truck drivers’ English language proficiency (ELP), reestablishing the ability to place drivers out-of-service for ELP violations—a reversal of the 2016 policy. This change, effective June 25, 2025, is designed to strengthen safety on our nation’s highways.

Understanding the Two-Step ELP Assessment

1. Driver Interview: Inspectors will now evaluate a driver’s ability to respond to official questions in English, without the use of translators or language aids.

2. Traffic Sign Recognition: Drivers must also demonstrate the ability to read and understand U.S. road signs, including electronic message boards, in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

Failing either step can result in the driver being placed out-of-service and potentially disqualified from operating in interstate commerce. An exception applies for drivers operating exclusively in certain commercial zones along the U.S.-Mexico border.

A Personal Reflection on the Language Barrier

In my personal experience working in the drug and alcohol testing industry, particularly with commercial drivers, I’ve encountered many situations where language barriers made routine procedures incredibly difficult—not just for the driver, but for everyone involved. Communication challenges often led to confusion, delays, and unfortunately, a number of cases where drivers involved in accidents were unable to clearly understand basic highway signage or official instructions. These weren’t just procedural hiccups—they were safety issues.

While it saddens me to see anyone feel excluded or fear losing their livelihood due to language limitations, I firmly believe this FMCSA initiative isn’t about discrimination. It’s about protecting lives—both those behind the wheel and those sharing the road. Most of the individuals I tested who had significant difficulty with English were involved in preventable accidents. That correlation is hard to ignore.

Moving Forward with Compassion and Responsibility

The trucking industry is built on the backs of hardworking individuals from diverse backgrounds. That’s why it’s essential that carriers and employers take proactive steps—not punitive ones. Here’s how we can support our drivers while upholding safety standards:

• Proactive English Language Training: Offer accessible, job-relevant language instruction tailored to commercial driving and highway communication.

• Pre-Employment Screening: Assess English proficiency before a driver is placed on the road to ensure both legal compliance and roadway safety.

• Educational Resources: Provide materials and practice tools that empower drivers to succeed and grow in their roles.

A Smart and Necessary Step

This new ELP rule is a smart move—not because it excludes, but because it protects. We all want our highways to be safe, and that means making sure everyone behind the wheel can understand the language of the road. Let’s do this not with judgment, but with intention—building up our drivers through education and support so no one is left behind.

At J C On-Site Testing LLC, we’re committed to compassionate compliance—because safety shouldn’t come at the cost of dignity.

Understanding road signs is important when your in charge of 80,000 lbs on the highway