English Proficiency Now Required for All CDL Drivers in Arkansas

Arkansas Passes New Law Requiring English Proficiency for All CDL Drivers

Focus on Work Authorization and English Proficiency

A new law in Arkansas will now require certain commercial drivers to meet stricter requirements. Under the new law, all CDL holders must have valid U.S. work authorization. They must also demonstrate English proficiency to operate a commercial motor vehicle in the state.

House Bill 1745 was recently signed into law by the governor. The new law adds criminal penalties for using fake commercial driver licenses. It also sets rules about who can legally drive a commercial vehicle in Arkansas.

The bill’s supporters say the law aims to improve road safety and prevent document fraud. It also brings state law more in line with federal rules on immigration and commercial driving.

False Foreign CDLs Now a Felony in Arkansas

One of the main parts of the new law targets fake driver licenses. It is now a Class D felony to use or present a false commercial driver license from a foreign country.

According to the law, this offense happens when a person knowingly presents a fake public record. The record must appear to be an official commercial driver license. If the person intends for others to believe it is valid, they could be charged with a felony.

The law defines a “public record” as any official document that provides public information. This includes licenses, titles, certificates, and other documents from U.S. states or recognized foreign governments.

Proof of Work Authorization Now Required

The new law also creates rules for drivers with CDLs from other countries. These drivers must carry a valid work visa or Employment Authorization Document (EAD) at all times while operating a commercial motor vehicle.

If they do not have this proof, they may be charged with a Class D felony. However, the charge could be reduced to a Class A misdemeanor. That applies if the driver can later prove they had a valid visa or work permit at the time they were stopped.

This requirement only applies to CDL holders who were issued their license by a foreign country. It does not impact those with U.S.-issued licenses who already meet federal standards.

Drivers Must Speak and Understand English

The law also creates a new rule about English language proficiency. All commercial vehicle operators in Arkansas must be able to read and speak English well enough to do their job safely.

Specifically, they must be able to:

• Converse with the general public
• Understand traffic signs and signals in English
• Answer official inquiries
• Fill out records and reports

If a driver cannot show they have these English skills, they may be fined. A first offense carries a fine of up to $500. For a second or later offense, the fine can be as much as $1,000.

This part of the law reflects existing federal rules. But now, Arkansas will impose state-level penalties for violations.

CDL Reciprocity Now Tied to English Proficiency Rules

Arkansas also changed how it recognizes commercial licenses from other areas. The new law says a person may drive a commercial vehicle in the state if they have a CDL or learner’s permit from:

• Any U.S. state or territory
• The District of Columbia
• The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico

Drivers with a CDL from Canada, Mexico or another foreign country must also carry a valid work visa or Employment Authorization Document. If they do not have this documentation, their license will not be recognized in Arkansas.

A driver also must not be suspended, revoked, canceled, or disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle. They must not be under an out-of-service order.

Lawmakers Support English Proficiency Enforcement

House Bill 1745 had wide support from lawmakers. It was sponsored by Representatives Hawk, Brooks, Joey Carr, Eaves, Evans, Hall, Holcomb, Milligan, Nazarenko, Painter, Pilkington, Schulz, Vaught, and Henley. Senators K. Hammer, J. Boyd, J. Bryant, Dees, and Gilmore also supported the measure.

The bill passed through the Arkansas General Assembly during the 2025 Regular Session. It was finalized with amendments in early April before being signed into law.

Supporters say the law will help make Arkansas roads safer and improve enforcement of both traffic and immigration laws.