Truck Drivers in Iowa Targeted in New ELP Bill

Iowa Senate Bill Proposes English Test for Truck Drivers

An Iowa Senate bill would introduce new English language rules for truck drivers. The proposal is Senate File 2173. Lawmakers introduced the measure on February 2, 2026. A Senate subcommittee later reviewed the bill. On February 11, 2026, the panel recommended amendment and passage.

The legislation centers on English language proficiency (ELP). That requirement already exists in federal safety regulations. The Iowa proposal would connect that standard directly to CDL licensing, hiring practices, and roadside enforcement within the state.

How the Iowa Bill Would Affect Truck Drivers Seeking a CDL

Senate File 2173 would amend Iowa Code section 321.177. The change would prevent the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) from issuing or renewing a commercial driver’s license (CDL) if an applicant fails to show sufficient English proficiency.

The bill references the federal driver qualification rule in 49 C.F.R. §391.11(b)(2). That regulation requires drivers to read and speak English well enough to communicate with the public, understand highway signs, respond to official questions, and complete records.

Computer-Based English Proficiency Exam for Truck Drivers

The proposal directs the Iowa DOT to examine English language proficiency for truck drivers. The testing requirement would apply to anyone applying for a CDL or a commercial learner’s permit (CLP). It would also apply to license renewals.

The exam must be administered in a computer-based format. Applicants must complete the test successfully. They must also provide proof, as determined by the DOT, that they meet the English proficiency standard.

The bill states that applicants may retake the exam. Retesting would depend on exam availability. The DOT would also be permitted to adopt rules under Iowa’s administrative procedures law to manage how the exams are given.

New Hiring and Compliance Rules Impacting Drivers and Carriers

Senate File 2173 would create clear obligations for commercial motor carriers. A carrier could not employ or engage the services of truck drivers who are not sufficiently proficient in English. This rule would apply to company drivers and independent contractors.

Carrier violations would carry civil penalties. The fines would increase with repeat offenses:

• First violation: $3,000
• Second violation: $5,000
• Third or subsequent violation: $10,000

The Iowa DOT would impose and collect these penalties. Funds would be deposited into the state’s Road Use Tax Fund (RUTF).

Penalties for Drivers Under the Proposed Law

The legislation would also apply directly to truck drivers. A person who is not sufficiently proficient in English could not legally operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).

If a driver is stopped and found to lack the required English proficiency, that individual must exit the vehicle. The driver would not be allowed to continue operating the CMV.

Penalties for violations would include:

• A $1,000 civil penalty
• A serious misdemeanor charge

Under Iowa law, a serious misdemeanor may result in up to one year of confinement. It may also include a fine ranging from $430 to $2,560.

What Happens to Truck Drivers During a Traffic Stop

Senate File 2173 outlines enforcement procedures. If an officer determines that a truck driver cannot continue operating due to insufficient English proficiency, the commercial motor carrier must be notified of the vehicle’s location.

The carrier may send another qualified commercial driver. That replacement must meet the English proficiency requirement. Before taking control of the vehicle, the carrier must pay any applicable civil penalty.

If the carrier fails to respond within twelve hours, further action may occur. The officer may notify the cargo owner. The cargo owner could then arrange to move the freight to another vehicle.

Liability Limits Tied to Truck Drivers Removed From Service

The bill includes liability protections. The language states that the state, local authorities, and cargo owners would not be liable for damages resulting from towing, impoundment, or reasonable cargo transfers connected to enforcement of the English proficiency requirement.

This provision is designed to reduce legal risk when a CMV is removed from the roadway because a driver is deemed non-compliant.

Federal Law Safeguard Affecting Truck Drivers and Enforcement

The legislation contains a federal compliance clause. The Iowa DOT would be prohibited from enforcing any part of the section if doing so would violate federal law or lead to the denial of federal funds or services.

In such cases, the department would be required to comply with federal law to the extent necessary to protect funding.

Why the Proposal Matters to Truck Drivers

English language proficiency is already part of federal driver qualification standards. Senate File 2173 would establish a defined state-level testing system. It would also introduce specific penalties affecting truck drivers and motor carriers operating in Iowa.

If enacted, the measure could affect CDL applicants, current CDL holders, safety managers, and recruiting departments. Truck drivers seeking issuance or renewal could face a new computer-based English exam. Carriers could face significant fines tied to hiring and driver oversight.

Legislative Status of Senate File 2173

Senate File 2173 was introduced on February 2, 2026. On February 11, 2026, a Senate subcommittee recommended amendment and passage. The proposal now moves forward for additional consideration within the Iowa legislature.