2025 Enforcement Puts English Proficiency in the Spotlight

In late June 2025, FMCSA began enforcing the English-language requirement for commercial drivers more aggressively — and the numbers are already making headlines. According to Transport Topics, more than 1,200 drivers have been placed out of service since enforcement began. Other outlets report totals as high as ~1,500 as inspections continue across the U.S.

While the numbers are striking, they’re also a direct result of policy changes that have been in motion since spring 2025.

What Changed in 2025

In April 2025, a federal order directed the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to restore full enforcement of the English-language proficiency requirement found in 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2).

FMCSA responded with updated guidance (effective June 25, 2025) outlining how inspectors should determine compliance:

1. Start in English – All roadside inspections begin in English.

2. Two-step assessment – If the driver struggles, inspectors conduct:

   • A verbal interview to assess conversational comprehension.

   • A traffic sign recognition check to confirm ability to read/understand highway signs in English.

3. No translation aids – Interpreters and translation apps are not part of the initial inspection process.

If a driver fails this assessment, they may be placed out of service under CVSA’s updated criteria.

Why It’s Making an Impact Now

Before 2025, enforcement of the English-language requirement was inconsistent, with some states applying the rule more strictly than others. The recent directive and FMCSA guidance created a uniform national standard, which is now being applied at scale.

According to Transport Topics, the most common reason for removal was failing the verbal communication portion of the inspection.

What This Means for Fleets

For carriers and fleet managers, this isn’t just about avoiding violations — it’s about ensuring drivers are prepared before they’re on the road.

The risks include:

• Operational disruption – An out-of-service order takes a driver and truck off the road immediately.

• Compliance costs – Delays, potential fines, and administrative follow-up.

• Safety concerns – Inability to read traffic signs or communicate with enforcement can create serious hazards.

How This Links to Our Previous Coverage

We’ve covered these shifts in prior Sentry Road blogs:

• Understanding FMCSA’s English Requirement for Drivers — Explains 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2) and what inspectors look for.

• English Proficiency Training Now Available from Sentry Road — Introduces our free course designed to help fleets prepare drivers ahead of enforcement.

Preparing Your Drivers

If you operate in interstate commerce or any area covered by FMCSA regulations, every driver needs to be able to:

• Communicate clearly in English with enforcement officials.

• Read and understand traffic signs and signals in English.

• Write simple messages and complete standard forms.

FMCSA offers full details of the requirement in 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2).

Final Takeaway

The 2025 enforcement shift is already changing operations for fleets nationwide. Whether your drivers are seasoned veterans or new hires, now is the time to ensure they meet English-language proficiency standards.

Sentry Road offers a free online English Proficiency Course to help fleets prepare drivers before they face an inspection. Contact us to learn more and protect your operations from avoidable downtime.