Trucker Pushes for ELP Endorsement to Be on CDLs

English Language Proficiency (ELP Endorsement) for Truckers: Proposal Seeks a Standard English Credential

ELP Endorsement Proposal Sent to FMCSA

A truck driver is leading a petition for a new ELP Endorsement to be added to commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). Natasha Cruz-Sanchez, a bilingual driver, submitted the proposal, called The Safe Communication Act, to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The plan calls for a standardized system to test English Language Proficiency for truckers.

The endorsement would certify a driver’s ability to read, write, and speak English. This has been a federal requirement for decades, but enforcement has not been consistent.

Why an ELP Endorsement Is Being Proposed

Current rules say drivers must read and speak English well enough to talk with the public, understand signs, and complete paperwork. But enforcement can vary from state to state.

The petition says some drivers are taken out of service because of accents or nerves during inspections. The ELP Endorsement would create fairness by providing a clear, test-based credential for all CDL holders.

What the ELP Endorsement Would Do

The proposal outlines steps to create the ELP Endorsement:

• Create a formal, federally recognized endorsement for truckers on state-issued CDLs.
• Model the assessment on the FAA system, which uses set criteria and ratings for English.
• Allow a one-year transition period for CDL holders to get the endorsement.
• Require in-person testing at DMV sites and issue a temporary card after passing.
• Protect drivers from unfair roadside checks with a clear credential.
• Require the endorsement before a CLP (commercial learner’s permit) can be issued.
• Build exam content with English instructors and release prep tools like a manual or app.

These materials would help drivers prepare for the test and feel confident.

ELP Endorsement Modeled After Aviation

The petition points to aviation as a model. Since 2008, the FAA has required an English endorsement for pilots and certificate holders. This system is based on ICAO standards.

It defines how skills are measured and how results appear on a license. The ELP Endorsement for truckers would mirror this system. It would set clear scoring levels and include a path to appeal.

How the ELP Endorsement Would Help Drivers

The ELP Endorsement aims to reduce confusion and create fairness at inspections. Roadside officers could rely on the credential instead of personal judgment. Supporters say this would also prevent delays and help keep supply chains moving. Fewer drivers would be taken out of service due to miscommunication.

The push for this endorsement comes as regulators review language rules for truckers. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) wants to align out-of-service criteria with current rules. FMCSA has also reminded carriers that driver qualifications already include English proficiency.

The Endorsement would turn these long-standing rules into a measurable standard.

Practical Effects If Adopted

If the rulemaking moves forward and the ELP Endorsement is required:

• Testing and Documentation: Drivers would take in-person tests. The endorsement would appear on CDLs like hazmat or tanker endorsements.
• Timing: Current CDL holders would get time to take the test. CLP applicants would need the endorsement first.
• Roadside Clarity: Inspectors could verify credentials quickly, reducing subjective calls.
• Training and Prep: Tools would help drivers strengthen English skills before school or testing. This could improve safety and lower the risk of compliance issues.

What’s Official Right Now

The petition is on file in the FMCSA public docket (FMCSA-2021-0054). Agencies will review it, ask for comments, or choose not to move forward.

Right now, no new endorsement exists. The current English requirement in §391.11(b)(2) remains in place.

Why the ELP Endorsement Matters

Supporters of the endorsement, including its author Natasha Cruz-Sanchez, stress that it is not meant to exclude drivers. In her letter, she wrote that this credential would “protect hardworking families, uplift communities, and honor every driver.”

The ELP Endorsement is seen as a way to improve safety and raise professionalism. It would also give drivers clear, fair standards to follow.