More ELP Rules in Texas: Strong Warning for All Truckers

Texas to Enforce ELP Standards for All Commercial Drivers

Governor Orders DPS to Conduct Strict Enforcement

Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to enforce English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements for all commercial drivers. The directive was announced on September 4, 2025, in Austin.

This action ensures that CDL drivers operating on Texas roadways must meet federal ELP rules set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Troopers and inspectors will now review whether drivers can communicate in English as part of all routine safety checks.

Governor Abbott explained the directive. “Truckers play an instrumental role in Texas’ robust economy and in keeping our highways safe. Every commercial driver license operator on Texas roadways must be able to communicate clearly in English to ensure compliance with traffic laws, follow safety directions, and prevent accidents. Today, I am directing DPS to enact zero-tolerance enforcement of these federal safety regulations across the board—whether drivers are operating across state lines or only within Texas. This approach will keep Texans safe while keeping our economy moving.”

What ELP Rules Require

ELP standards already exist under federal law. Drivers must be able to read and understand road signs in English. They also need to talk with law enforcement, follow instructions, and complete reports written in English.

The governor’s directive makes it clear that DPS will no longer overlook ELP violations. Reviews of English skills will now be part of every inspection and compliance check.

DPS to Conduct Zero-Tolerance ELP Checks

DPS Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Troopers will carry out zero-tolerance ELP checks during inspections. Officers will evaluate each driver’s ability to understand and respond in English.

Drivers who cannot show proficiency will face penalties, citations, or even out-of-service orders. In addition, DPS has been directed to stop issuing intrastate CDLs to drivers who cannot demonstrate enough English ability to communicate with department staff.

Federal Executive Order on Enforcement

This state-level action follows a federal order issued earlier in the summer. On June 25, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order requiring full enforcement of ELP standards nationwide.

Since then, DPS and partner agencies have been active in Texas. Between late June and early September, about 445 commercial drivers faced enforcement action for ELP violations. Roughly 28 of those held Texas licenses. Another 336 drivers were licensed in Mexico, while the rest held licenses from other states or countries.

Why ELP Matters for Roadway Safety

Officials highlight safety as the reason behind strict enforcement. Drivers need to understand inspectors during roadside checks. They must follow traffic signals and respond to emergency directions. In a crisis, being able to speak with first responders or police is critical.

Clear communication also helps reduce confusion and prevents accidents. State leaders believe that by requiring strong standards, drivers will be better prepared to comply with all safety rules.

Impact on CDL Drivers and Carriers

Texas drivers will now face closer inspection of language skills. Applicants for intrastate CDLs who cannot show adequate English ability will be denied a license.

Out-of-state and international drivers will also face additional review. Recent enforcement data shows that most violations involved drivers licensed in Mexico.

For carriers, the directive may require adjustments in hiring and training. Companies operating in Texas will need to ensure their drivers meet ELP standards before they are dispatched.

ELP Enforcement and National Trends

Texas is not alone in addressing this issue. While ELP requirements are long-standing, enforcement has varied. With both state and federal leaders now calling for strict measures, CDL drivers nationwide may see tighter checks.

This could affect U.S.–Mexico trucking operations and influence how carriers prepare drivers for compliance.

Moving Forward

Governor Abbott’s directive ensures that DPS will continue zero-tolerance enforcement of ELP rules. Both interstate and intrastate drivers are included. The agency will also stop issuing intrastate CDLs to applicants who cannot pass basic English communication standards.

Enforcement is expected to expand and become routine. While it may create challenges for some drivers and carriers, state officials say strict compliance will improve highway safety and strengthen adherence to federal rules.