CDL Test: New Bill Would Require Tests to be in English Only

CDL Test Changes Proposed Under New English Language Bill

New Bill Would Change CDL Test Requirements

Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) has introduced a new bill that would change how the CDL test is given in the United States. The bill, called the Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) English Proficiency Act, was introduced in the Senate on June 18, 2025.

If passed, the law would require all commercial driver’s license (CDL) applicants to pass the CDL test in English only. It would apply to anyone seeking a license to drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).

Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) are co-sponsors of the legislation.

What the Bill Would Require

Under the bill, CDL test applicants must prove they can understand and use English. This includes taking the knowledge portion of the CDL test in written, spoken, or digital form—only in English. These changes would go into effect two years after the bill becomes law.

To meet the new requirements, applicants would need to:

• Read and understand traffic signs written in English
• Communicate in English with law enforcement, border agents, and weigh station staff
• Receive and give safety instructions in English

The bill clearly states that the CDL test may not be offered in any language other than English.

CDL Test Rules in Federal Regulations Would Be Updated

The legislation directs the Secretary of Transportation to revise the rules that govern the CDL test. These changes would apply to Part 383 of Title 49 in the Code of Federal Regulations. All updates must be completed within two years of the bill becoming law.

Current federal law already says that CDL drivers must speak English. However, this bill would go further. It would remove the option for states to offer the CDL test in other languages.

Why the Bill Is Being Introduced

This proposed law follows an executive order by President Donald Trump. That order told federal agencies to better enforce existing English language standards for commercial drivers. It also repealed guidance from the Obama administration that had allowed some flexibility for testing in other languages.

Supporters say the bill would improve safety.

“Common sense would tell us that anyone driving on American roads, especially those operating large trucks and trailers, should be capable of understanding what the road signs say or how to communicate with police,” said Senator Marshall. “Kansans deserve to know that commercial operators are held to the highest safety standards. I am proud to introduce legislation that ensures those driving the largest vehicles on the road can understand the official language of America: English.”

Senator Hyde-Smith added, “English proficiency for commercial truck drivers isn’t just practical, it can be a matter of life and death. The unwillingness of previous administrations to enforce this commonsense regulation undermines roadway safety and puts all drivers at risk. I’m proud to work with Senator Marshall to restore this critical safety standard. This legislation is a straightforward, sensible step that will make our roads and highways safer for everyone.”

Next Steps for the CDL Test Bill

The CMV English Proficiency Act is currently under review by a Senate committee. If the bill advances, it will be voted on by the full Senate and then considered by the House of Representatives.

It is not yet clear how much support the CDL test changes will receive or if the bill will become law.