President Donald Trump has issued a new executive order mandating that all commercial truck drivers in the United States demonstrate English proficiency, a move the White House says is aimed at improving safety and communication on the nation’s highways.
The order, announced on Monday, tasks the Department of Transportation with reinstating and strengthening rules requiring truckers to speak, read, and understand English. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that communication issues between truckers and officials have become a growing concern and represent a clear public safety risk. She added that the order would help ensure that truck drivers are fully able to interact with traffic officers, respond to emergencies, and follow critical signage.
The executive order directs Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to roll back previous guidance that had softened the English language requirement. It also calls for further regulatory steps to improve working conditions for truck drivers. Drivers who fail to meet the new language standards may be removed from service, according to the administration.
Trump’s decision comes amid a reported rise in foreign-born truck drivers, a trend highlighted earlier this month by transportation analysts and conservative media. Experts have pointed to previous administrations—namely under Barack Obama and Joe Biden—for loosening language requirements and opening trucking programs to non-native English speakers, including refugees. Critics argue that the policy changes have introduced safety concerns due to language barriers.
The administration insists this measure is not aimed at singling out immigrants but instead focuses on ensuring that all truckers, regardless of background, can perform their jobs safely. Officials say truckers must be able to read warning signs, understand cargo regulations, and communicate clearly at checkpoints and weigh stations across the country.
This latest order marks the second time Trump has moved to elevate the role of English in federal policy since his return to office. In March, he signed another executive order officially designating English as the United States’ national language, a long-standing Republican priority.
Truckers were praised by Trump during the COVID-19 pandemic for their dedication in keeping the supply chain moving under pressure. His latest order reflects a shift toward regulation focused on preparedness and compliance, particularly as the trucking industry continues to evolve with a more diverse workforce.
Industry groups and unions have yet to release official statements, but debate is expected to follow over how the new requirement will affect staffing, training programs, and current commercial driver’s license holders. For now, the administration maintains that the move is a necessary step to protect the safety of drivers and the public alike.