US Makes English Proficiency Test Mandatory for Truck Drivers — Foreign-Born Drivers in Focus

WASHINGTON (International News): The United States government has made it mandatory for all commercial truck drivers to pass an English language proficiency test, in a move aimed at ensuring drivers can read road signs and communicate effectively with law enforcement officers across the country.
The directive is part of a broader crackdown described by authorities as a campaign to “remove unqualified drivers from American roads,” which has now been significantly expanded under the current administration. Under the new regulations, no commercial driver will be permitted to operate without demonstrating a basic ability to read, write, and speak English.
Officials argue that the ability to understand traffic signs, follow written safety regulations, and interact clearly with police and emergency responders is a fundamental requirement for safe road operation, particularly for long-haul truckers who traverse multiple states.
However, the policy is drawing significant scrutiny and criticism from immigrant advocacy groups and industry stakeholders. The measure is expected to disproportionately impact Latino, Asian, and other non-English-speaking drivers, who make up a substantial portion of the American trucking workforce.
Critics contend the move is aligned with the Trump administration’s broader immigration agenda, designed to systematically reduce the presence of foreign-born workers in key industries under the guise of safety regulation.
The trucking industry, which was already grappling with a severe driver shortage, may face further strain as a result. Supply chain analysts warn that removing a large segment of experienced drivers could disrupt freight logistics and have cascading effects on consumer goods availability and transportation costs nationwide.