Get Ready for the Change: New English Language Requirements for Commercial Drivers

The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) has just announced a new rule that will impact transportation fleets nationwide—and especially those operating in the cross-border market. Starting June 25, 2025, any commercial driver who cannot communicate in English will be immediately placed out of service under 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2).

What’s Changing

For years, violations of the English language requirement were cited but rarely enforced. That’s about to change. Now, all inspections must begin in English. If the driver cannot answer questions, understand instructions, or read road signs, they will be pulled off the road.

FMCSA has made it clear: this is about safety and compliance, not politics. Understanding official instructions and road signage is a basic requirement to operate a commercial vehicle in the U.S.

Direct Impact on the Cross-Border Market

For companies operating between Mexico and the U.S., this marks a turning point. Many short-haul cross-border drivers, who operate between the border and nearby logistics hubs, have limited English proficiency. Under the new rule, these drivers could be taken out of service immediately.

Key Risks:

• Operational disruptions on critical routes

• Fines or delays at border inspections

• Forced reassignment of drivers

• Loss of skilled operators due to language barriers
  

Get Ready: Steps Your Business Must Take Now

1. Language Assessment

Conduct quick evaluations of your U.S.-bound drivers to identify who needs urgent language training.

2. Immediate, Targeted Training

Implement functional English training focused on:

• Traffic signs

• Inspection vocabulary

• Communication with DOT officers

• Basic report writing
  

3. Reorganize Routes and Roles

Temporarily assign cross-border routes to drivers who already meet language standards, while others receive training.

4. Partner with Local Resources

Border-area chambers of commerce, training centers, and trade associations (in Laredo, Tijuana, El Paso, Mexicali, etc.) are offering fast, practical language programs.

5. Prepare for Stricter Inspections

Let your team know that initial communication during inspections must be in English. Practice with mock inspections to build confidence.

Next Step: Strengthen Your Hiring Process

This rule also affects how new drivers should be evaluated. It's essential to implement language screening at:

• CDL applications

• License renewals

• New hires in cross-border fleets
  

Time Is Running Out

There are only a few weeks left before this rule takes effect. Preparing is not optional—it’s a necessary step to ensure business continuity and avoid penalties that could hurt your competitiveness.

Now is the time to act. Language compliance is now a non-negotiable requirement for operating across borders. We strongly encourage all players in the cross-border transportation industry to launch an action plan today. Being prepared not only ensures compliance—it also drives the professionalization of our sector.