CDL News Updates

Sponsored primarily by Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.), the SAFE Drivers Act is meant to guarantee commercial drivers have a proficient understanding of English.

Secretary Sean Duffy is turning up the heat on California after another truck driver holding a non-domiciled CDL issued by the state was involved in a fatal crash. But California is pushing back.

A truck driver accused of being under the influence and causing a fiery crash that killed three people on a California freeway is in the country illegally, U.S. Homeland Security officials said.

Since the start of the year, freight stakeholders have praised White House efforts on workforce reforms while pressing for additional recruitment and retention efforts.

States are detailing their responses to a U.S. Department of Transportation edict to restrict access to commercial driver licenses and permits for non-domiciled drivers.

An FMCSA audit recently found compliance issues in California, Colorado, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas and Washington. South Dakota was first to acknowledge them.

The measure would require that commercial drivers comprehend traffic signs in English, as well as respond to official notices and prepare reports in English.

ATA President Chris Spear in an Oct. 8 letter detailed several matters for Congress such as boosting entry-level driver training as well as English-language proficiency requirements.

The DRIVE Safe Act promotes rigorous safety training for younger commercial drivers. The bill would enhance an apprenticeship program for prospective drivers once they obtain their CDLs.

Three states recently ramped up enforcement in response to renewed U.S. Department of Transportation attention to English-language proficiency issues.