CDL Testing: New Bill Would Make All Parts English-Only

Commercial Motor Vehicle English Proficiency Act Introduced in U.S. House

A new bill in the U.S. House of Representatives aims to change how all CDL testing is handled across the country. Congressman Dave Taylor of Ohio, along with several other cosponsors, has introduced the Commercial Motor Vehicle English Proficiency Act. The bill matches a Senate version introduced in June this year. Both versions focus on creating one national rule for English use during the CDL process.

The goal of the proposal is to make the CDL system more consistent by applying the same English requirements in every state.

CDL Testing Rules Under the New Proposal

Today, federal rules require the road skills test to be in English. But the written knowledge test may be offered in other languages. This creates differences between states. Some states offer the knowledge test in many languages, while others do not.

The new bill would change this. It would require all CDL testing—written, verbal, and automated—to be done only in English. Applicants would need to show that they can read signs in English. They must also be able to speak with police, inspectors, and other officials. The bill text lists these English skills and describes how the rule would work.

The Senate’s companion bill includes the same rules and the same two-year timeline for putting them into place.

If Congress approves the legislation, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) would update federal CDL regulations. Every state would then make changes to match these rules.

Safety Concerns Linked to CDL Testing Requirements

Supporters of the bill say that stronger English rules could help with safety. They point to moments when drivers must understand road warnings, follow directions from officers, or react to emergencies. Large trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and clear communication may help reduce risks.

Industry groups, including the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and the Small Business in Transportation Coalition (SBTC), support the change. They say that drivers need to understand information at weigh stations, inspection sites, and during emergency events. These groups believe the bill would help create more reliable standards for CDL testing in every state.

Past Events Renew the Focus CDL Testing Standards

The press release cites a 2017 crash in northern Florida in which an 18-year-old named Connor Dzion was killed. Investigators found that the truck driver did not understand English-language warning signs posted ahead of slowed traffic. Supporters say this shows why English proficiency is important during the testing and licensing process. They also note that earlier versions of federal rules had stronger English standards, but those rules changed over time.

These past events have added new attention to how CDL testing is handled and how federal rules affect safety on the road.

How Connor’s Law Connects to CDL Testing

Earlier in 2025, Congressman Taylor introduced H.R. 3608, Connor’s Law, which focuses on English requirements for current CDL holders. This bill would write English proficiency rules into federal law. Drivers would need to speak with the public, read traffic signs, respond to questions from officials, and complete required reports.

Connor’s Law also directs officers to place a driver out of service if the driver does not meet basic English standards. This ties enforcement actions to existing federal rules in 49 CFR 391.11(b)(2).

Connor’s Law and the new English Proficiency Act work together. Connor’s Law applies to drivers who already have a CDL. The English Proficiency Act applies to future applicants going through CDL testing. Supporters say the two bills cover both sides: new drivers and current drivers.

Two-Year Timeline for CDL Testing Rule Changes

Both the House and Senate versions of the bill include a two-year window to make the new changes. During that time, DOT would update federal CDL regulations. States would then update their own CDL testing procedures.

This means changes to training materials, written tests, automated testing systems, and examiner guidelines. CDL schools and third-party testing centers would also update their processes. Because CDL programs are run by states, coordination would be required across all 50 states and U.S. territories.

What the New Testing Rules Could Mean for Truck Drivers

If the bill becomes law, applicants would need to show English proficiency before earning a CDL. This could affect new drivers in states that currently offer tests in several languages. Training schools may need to help students meet these English requirements. Drivers trained outside the United States may also face new steps in the licensing process.

Industry supporters say the change could help during inspections, road closures, work zones, and emergency situations. They point out that drivers often receive information with little time to react. Clear English communication during these events may help reduce mistakes.

Next Steps for the Proposed Legislation

The bill will now move through committee review in the House. The Senate’s version is already under review. Congress would need to pass matching versions of the bill for it to move forward. If the bill becomes law, states would revise their CDL testing procedures to meet the new English-only rules.

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