Updated FMCSA English Language Proficiency Requirements Announced

05.21.25 /

Joshua Vaughn

05.21.25

Joshua Vaughn works for Alabama Trucking as Director of Advocacy and Marketing. As an 11-year veteran of the Business Council of Alabama, Vaughn played a pivotal role in communicating with and advocating for Alabama’s diverse business community. Vaughn has been with Alabama Trucking since 2023 and been instrumental in developing and shaping Alabama Trucking’s public relations and advocacy efforts. He can be reached at jvaughn@alabamatrucking.org

Share

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced updated FMCSA guidance to enforce English language proficiency (ELP) requirements for commercial drivers. The revised policy includes new roadside assessment procedures, requiring drivers to communicate effectively with enforcement officials and interpret road signs without using aids like interpreters or apps. Drivers failing to meet these criteria may be placed out of service. The guidance takes effect immediately, replacing the 2016 policy, but drivers in U.S. and Mexico border zones will not be placed out of service solely for ELP violations. Read FMCSA’s Final ELP Guidance below.

FMCSA-ELP-Guidance-with-Attachments-Final-5-20-2025_Redacted