New English Language Rules for Truck Drivers: Stay Compliant and Keep Your Commercial Driver’s License

A new federal order is transforming the transportation industry in the United States. According to updated truck drivers' rules and regulations, all commercial truck drivers operating in the U.S. must demonstrate the ability to speak, read, and write English well enough to safely perform their job duties.

For many drivers, especially non-native English speakers, this change has sparked concern. Employers must now ensure that their drivers meet these language proficiency standards. Failing to comply may lead to penalties, delayed certifications, or worse, job loss.

At Berlitz, we understand that clear communication is critical in the trucking industry. That’s why we offer fast, flexible English training solutions designed specifically to help drivers meet the new requirements, without putting their routes or routines on hold.

What the New Federal Rule Means for Drivers and Employers?

The updated regulation reinforces the requirement that all holders of a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) must:

• Speak English clearly and effectively in daily operations.

• Read and understand highway signs, traffic signals, and written documents.

• Write routine reports and communicate in case of emergencies.

Whether a driver interacts with law enforcement, navigates through construction zones, or completes delivery paperwork, English proficiency is no longer helpful, it’s essential.

This change affects not only individual drivers, but also the companies that employ them. Fleet owners, HR departments, and compliance officers must now act quickly to support their teams and protect business continuity.

Berlitz: A Roadmap to Compliance and Confidence

Berlitz offers tailored language solutions that meet the needs of both organizations and independent drivers. Our programs are designed to deliver real results, fast, while keeping learning convenient and cost-effective.

For Trucking Companies:

We partner with transportation employers to:

• Assess current English proficiency with accurate placement testing.

• Design custom training plans based on the needs of your workforce.

• Provide scalable programs for remote, hybrid, or on-the-road learning.

• Deliver measurable results to ensure compliance with updated truck drivers rules and regulations.

We work closely with HR and operations teams to minimize disruption while ensuring your drivers are language-ready and regulation-compliant.

For Individual Drivers:

If you're a driver looking to meet these new requirements and protect your Commercial Driver’s License, Berlitz can help you:

• Improve English communication quickly with flexible online or in-person classes.

• Learn at your own pace, with programs designed to fit your schedule.

• Gain confidence speaking, reading, and writing in work-related situations.

Our proven method focuses on practical, real-world language skills, so you’re ready for every interaction behind the wheel.

Why Act Now?

DOT inspections and employer audits are becoming more rigorous. Waiting until the last minute could risk jobs, licenses, and livelihoods. Investing in language training now can make the difference between compliance and consequences.

At Berlitz, we make it easy to take the first step. Whether you're a company leader building a support strategy for your team, or a driver aiming to secure your future, we’re here to help you stay on track.

Stay in the driver’s seat. Speak English with confidence.

Contact Berlitz today to explore our English programs for the transportation industry.