Trucking Industry Targeted in New DOT Safety Actions

Trucking Targeted in Federal “Securing Our Roads” Safety Actions

Federal officials outlined a series of enforcement actions and policy initiatives affecting the trucking industry as part of the “Securing Our Roads” safety effort. The announcement, led by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), highlights steps aimed at licensing oversight, fraud prevention, and driver safety. Officials said the initiative combines enforcement actions already underway with additional measures expected in the coming months.

Trucking Actions Already Implemented

Federal officials said several actions have already taken place under the initiative.

One measure involved restoring English proficiency testing requirements for commercial drivers. Officials reported that enforcement of language standards resulted in drivers being placed out of service for failing to meet requirements.

In addition, the DOT launched a nationwide audit of state licensing practices involving non-domiciled CDLs. Federal officials said the audits identified compliance concerns in multiple states, including California, Illinois, and Pennsylvania.

Authorities also increased oversight of electronic logging devices (ELDs). Enhanced vetting processes led to the removal of non-compliant devices from the approved list.

Another enforcement effort focused on CDL training providers. Federal officials reported investigations into training schools that did not meet federal standards, resulting in compliance actions and removals from federal registries.

Operation SafeDRIVE Targets Trucking Safety

Officials also cited enforcement activity conducted through Operation SafeDRIVE, an inspection campaign involving state law enforcement partners. The initiative included inspections of drivers and vehicles, with some drivers placed out of service due to safety violations.

Rule Addressing Non-Domiciled CDL Eligibility

The FMCSA also finalized an interim rule intended to prevent unqualified foreign drivers from obtaining a non-domiciled CDL. Officials said the rule is designed to strengthen verification processes and improve oversight of CDL eligibility.

Federal officials outlined several additional actions planned under the Securing Our Roads initiative. These measures focus on licensing standards, registration systems, fraud prevention, and driver safety across the trucking industry.

Future Trucking Actions Under the Securing Our Roads Plan

English Language Standards

Future actions include English-only testing for CDL. In addition, the plan calls for revoking licenses from drivers who fail ELP requirements rather than placing them temporarily out of service.

Registration System Modernization

Upgrading the current carrier registration platform, which officials said relies on older technology. The update would transition the system to a biometric-based platform known as MOTUS, aimed at improving identity verification and reducing registration fraud.

Fraud Prevention Measures

Efforts will expand across trucking operations. Key measures include:

• Requiring carriers to maintain a physical business location for record inspections within 48 hours
• Expanding Operation SafeDRIVE into additional states
• Increasing sting operations targeting CDL Mills
• Restructuring certification requirements for CDL training schools

Targeting Chameleon Carrier Networks

Efforts will address networks of carriers that attempt to avoid oversight by using fraudulent registrations or shell companies. This practice is commonly referred to in the trucking industry as “chameleon carriers.”

Strengthening Driver Safety and Technology Oversight

Stronger vetting of ELD to ensure compliance with federal safety requirements. Officials said the measure is intended to improve oversight of technology used to track driver hours and safety performance.

What Comes Next

Federal officials indicated that enforcement activity, regulatory changes, and system modernization efforts will continue as the initiative moves forward. Planned actions include expanded inspections, ongoing fraud investigations, and implementation of updated registration and licensing systems affecting the trucking industry.