In 2025, the topic of English proficiency for CDL drivers became one of the most discussed in the industry. Most drivers have already heard about the new checks and increased control.
But the main question today is what is happening now, in 2026, and which states are starting to introduce their own measures beyond federal requirements.
Below is the current picture by state and the latest trends.
Although federal standards apply nationwide, states are reacting differently:
- some have already adopted separate laws
- some are discussing new fines
- some states are mentioned in federal CDL process checks
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| State | Type of Activity | What's Happening (Briefly) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | Law Adopted | Act 604 (2025) adopted: establishes the requirement of English proficiency for CMV operators and introduces related accountability measures. | Arkansas Act 604 (PDF) |
| Oklahoma | Law Adopted | SB 20 — “Oklahoma Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025” adopted, includes a block on CDL/CMV regulation and testing requirements. | Oklahoma SB20 ENR (PDF) |
| Texas | Official Directive | On September 4, 2025, the governor instructed Texas DPS to strictly enforce FMCSA federal requirements on English proficiency. | Governor Abbott directive (Sep 4, 2025) |
| Wyoming | Bill in Progress | HB0032 (2026): state initiative to introduce additional measures on English proficiency for commercial drivers. | Wyoming HB0032 bill page |
| Arizona | Bill in Progress | HB2443 (2026): a bill directly addressing English proficiency in the context of commercial driver's licenses. | Arizona HB2443 (PDF) |
| Illinois | Bill in Progress | HB4184 (2025–2026): requires applicants for a Commercial Learner’s Permit to demonstrate the ability to read and write in English. | Illinois HB4184 status page |
| California | Mentioned in Federal Review | AP reports identified issues in CDL procedures and federal attention to enforcement. | AP report on CDL issues in multiple states |
| Pennsylvania | Mentioned in Federal Review | Mentioned by AP as a state where federal review identified risks of non-compliance in CDL issuance. | AP report (multi-state findings) |
| Minnesota | Mentioned in Federal Review | Also included in the AP list of states with identified CDL procedure issues. | AP report (multi-state findings) |
| New York | Mentioned in Federal Review | Mentioned as a state where the review identified issues with non-domiciled CDLs. | AP report (multi-state findings) |
| South Dakota | Mentioned in Federal Review | AP reports technical and procedural compliance issues with CDL. | AP report (multi-state findings) |
| Colorado | Mentioned in Federal Review | Listed by AP as a state with identified errors in CDL documentation/processes. | AP report (multi-state findings) |
| Washington | Mentioned in Federal Review | Mentioned by AP among states where CDL procedure discrepancies were found. | AP report (multi-state findings) |
The main reason is that federal reviews and increased inspections lead states to:
- want to introduce their own fines and penalties
- strive to standardize DMV procedures
- respond to pressure from DOT and FMCSA
This means that in 2026, requirements may vary not only federally but also by state.
If you are a CDL driver, it's important to remember:
- English proficiency is now checked more strictly
- interpreters and apps won't help during inspections
- the main thing is the ability to understand the inspector and read signs
For carrier companies, this means:
- the need for additional training
- risks of Out-of-Service downtime
- increased compliance in hiring
To understand today's situation, it's important to remember key events of the past year.
The English language requirement is enshrined in FMCSA regulations:
49 CFR §391.11 — Driver Qualifications
On May 2, 2025, a presidential order was published on the need to strengthen compliance with language requirements:
Enforcing Commonsense Rules of the Road (Federal Register, May 2, 2025)
On May 20, 2025, FMCSA released updated guidance on English proficiency checks:
FMCSA English Language Proficiency Guidance (May 20, 2025)
2026 is a stage when states begin to supplement federal requirements with their own laws and initiatives.
For drivers, this is no longer theoretical but a practical issue of work access, safety, and stability on U.S. roads.
