Oklahoma Secure Roads Act Targets English Proficiency for CDL Drivers

Oklahoma Proposes New Rules in the “Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act”

Oklahoma lawmakers are considering major changes to commercial driver license rules. The new bill is called the Oklahoma Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025. If passed, it could change how CDL drivers are licensed and regulated in the state.

Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act Updated

Senate Bill 20 was revised and replaced with new language. Representative Jonathan Wilk submitted the changes. The updated version includes stricter rules for truck drivers, especially those who are not from Oklahoma.

The bill includes new requirements for licenses. It also creates penalties for violations and gives law enforcement more power on the road.

Stricter Rules for Non-Oklahoma CDLs

One major change is about non-domiciled CDLs. These are commercial licenses issued by other states or countries. Under the new rules, these licenses will not be valid in Oklahoma unless certain conditions are met.

Drivers from outside the U.S. must have:

• A valid work visa
• Proof of citizenship from their home country
• A physical copy of their commercial license

These drivers would also need to get a CDL from Oklahoma. That license would expire when their visa expires. Service Oklahoma, the state licensing agency, would be in charge of making the rules and handling these licenses.

Visa Holders Face Driving Ban

The bill would ban people with B-1, B-2, or B-1/B-2 visitor visas from driving commercial trucks in Oklahoma. Anyone caught doing so could face a fine of up to $2,000.

Motor carriers that hire these drivers could be fined up to $5,000. The state would collect the money through the Service Oklahoma Revolving Fund.

Law enforcement officers would also be allowed to impound any truck operated in violation of this law. The vehicle could be towed from the road right away.

English Language Skills Required for Drivers

All commercial drivers in Oklahoma would need to show that they can speak and understand English. This includes the ability to:

• Talk with the public
• Read and understand road signs
• Answer questions from police or inspectors
• Fill out reports and records

If a driver cannot show these skills, officers can impound the vehicle. This would be done under current state law.

Special License Markings for Offenders and Restrictions

The bill includes other changes to CDLs. It would require special labels for some drivers.

Anyone on Oklahoma’s sex offender registry would receive licenses marked “Sex Offender.” This applies only to those marked as aggravated or habitual offenders. They would have to give up their current license within 180 days and apply for a new one.

Once someone is no longer on the registry, they can get a regular license again.

Drivers who are required to use an ignition interlock device (essentially a breathalyzer) would get licenses labeled “Interlock Required.” That label would stay on the license until the restriction ends.

Farm Industry Drivers Would Keep Their Exceptions

Some drivers in the agriculture industry will still qualify for restricted CDLs. These apply to:

• Farm supply businesses
• Agri-chemical companies
• Custom harvesters
• Livestock feeders

Drivers must be at least 18 years old. They must have had a driver license for at least one year. If they have two years of experience, they must also have a clean driving record.

These restricted licenses are limited. They can only be used within 150 miles of the farm or business. The license only covers Class B and C vehicles. Hazardous materials can be transported under strict limits, such as:

• Diesel fuel under 1,000 gallons
• Liquid fertilizers under 3,000 gallons
• Solid fertilizers not mixed with organic substances

No other hazardous materials would be allowed with this license.

Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act – Emergency Clause 

The bill includes an emergency clause. This means the law would take effect right away if it is passed. Lawmakers say the quick start is needed to protect public safety.