The importance of reforms in Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) testing and training is crucial in today’s changing trucking industry. Safety on the roads is a top priority, and the American Trucking Associations (ATA) has raised concerns about the current regulations. They emphasize the urgent need for legislative changes to improve training and testing standards. The rising number of accidents linked to poorly trained drivers has raised questions about the gaps in oversight and enforcement that jeopardize highway safety.

ATA leaders highlight that the goal is not just to comply with the existing standards but to raise the bar to protect public safety and minimize risks associated with commercial driving. This urgent need to reassess CDL standards reflects broader challenges in the trucking sector, with industry leaders pressing for widespread reforms to create a more skilled and safer driving workforce.

Improving CDL testing and training is not merely a matter of compliance; it is a vital step toward protecting lives on the road, and we must tackle these reforms decisively.

Recommendations to Congress by the American Trucking Associations (ATA)

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has put forth six crucial recommendations to Congress focused on enhancing the standards and safety surrounding Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) testing and training. These recommendations aim to tackle current gaps in the regulatory framework and ensure safer highways:

1. Codify English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements: ATA urges Congress to formalize existing ELP standards into law, ensuring consistent application across states to prevent any future weakening of requirements.
2. Implement a Standardized ELP Test: The organization advocates for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to develop a mandatory national ELP test for all CDL applicants. This test would assess whether applicants can understand and respond to road signs, instructions, and emergency situations effectively.
3. Require One Year of Standard License Experience Before CDL Eligibility: ATA recommends that individuals should hold a standard driver’s license for at least one year prior to applying for a CDL, with limited exceptions for certain qualifying training programs that meet robust safety standards.
4. Enhance Oversight of CDL Issuance and Testing: The organization calls for enhanced oversight from both state and federal authorities to guarantee that only fully qualified drivers are licensed to operate commercial vehicles. This includes performing more frequent audits of testing and licensing practices.
5. Expedite the Removal of Non-Compliant Training Providers: ATA emphasizes the need for FMCSA to act swiftly in removing training providers that fail to meet the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards from the Training Provider Registry. This measure aims to uphold educational integrity and safety in training practices.
6. Strengthen Enforcement Against Illegal Cabotage: The association recommends increasing penalties and enforcement measures against illegal cabotage practices that allow foreign carriers to operate domestically without adhering to U.S. safety regulations, thereby protecting both the industry and public safety.

Gaps in Current CDL Oversight and Enforcement

The safety of our highways is significantly compromised by gaps in the oversight and enforcement of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) regulations. Despite being one of the most heavily regulated industries, the trucking sector faces alarming deficiencies. Chris Spear, the President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, succinctly stated, “Though commercial trucking is among the most heavily regulated industries in the United States, gaps in oversight, enforcement, and qualification requirements pose a serious threat to safety on our nation’s highways.”

These gaps in oversight manifest in various forms, including:

1. Inadequate Implementation of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Standards: The enforcement of ELDT standards has been inconsistent, with many training providers showing non-compliance. As of early 2025, a minimal number of providers have faced removal from the Training Provider Registry, despite numerous complaints about inadequate training practices. This not only endangers public safety but also undermines the integrity of the training programs intended to ensure that drivers are adequately prepared for the operational demands of commercial driving.
2. Failure to Report Driver Convictions Promptly: Reports have indicated that states often fail to transmit electronic driver conviction notifications on time. An audit by the Department of Transportation highlighted that a significant percentage of serious violations go unreported, hindering efforts to keep unsafe drivers off the roads. This bureaucratic lag can result in a higher risk of accidents linked to unqualified drivers.
3. Corruption in the Licensing System: Case indictments have revealed troubling instances of corruption wherein unqualified individuals received CDLs through bribed testing processes. Such actions not only endanger the public but also compromise the overall credibility of the CDL issuance process. When unqualified individuals take to the highways, the risk of accidents invariably increases.
4. Lack of Enforcement of Language Proficiency Requirements: Insufficient enforcement of English language proficiency standards further complicates matters. Investigations have revealed that some states permit drivers who do not meet these language requirements to operate commercial vehicles. This raises serious concerns about their ability to understand road signs, instructions, and emergency directives, directly impacting highway safety.
5. Oversight of Non-Domiciled CDL Holders: The American Trucking Associations has highlighted the need for stricter scrutiny regarding non-domiciled CDL holders. Weak oversight mechanisms have allowed unsafe drivers who do not permanently reside in the states that issue their licenses to operate on U.S. highways, and this practice must be critically evaluated to protect public safety.

In conclusion, these gaps in oversight and enforcement pose escalating risks to highway safety. As the trucking industry evolves, the need for robust reforms and stronger regulatory frameworks becomes increasingly urgent. Addressing these deficiencies will not only enhance public safety but also ensure that only qualified, well-trained drivers are allowed to operate commercial vehicles on the nation’s roads.

The Importance of English Language Proficiency for CDL Holders

English language proficiency is crucial for commercial drivers holding a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) due to its significant impact on safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Safety Implications

Drivers lacking English proficiency have been found to pose greater safety risks. A study analyzing Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) data revealed that carriers with English language proficiency violations were involved in Department of Transportation (DOT)-recordable crashes at nearly twice the national average. This rate surpassed those associated with speeding or drug-and-alcohol violations. This highlights that without the ability to understand road signs and communicate effectively in emergencies, drivers may endanger themselves and others on the road [san.com]. Further, proper English proficiency is essential for understanding driver training standards and truck driver safety measures necessary for keeping highways safe.

Industry Support for English Proficiency Requirements

The trucking industry largely supports enforcing English language proficiency. A survey by FleetOwner indicated that 95% of respondents view non-English-proficient drivers as a safety issue, with 75% considering it a significant problem. Additionally, 90% support including English proficiency in out-of-service criteria, and 93% advocate for its inclusion in CDL tests [fleetowner.com].

Regulatory Actions and Compliance

The U.S. Department of Transportation has intensified enforcement of English proficiency requirements. In October 2025, the department withheld $40.6 million in federal transportation funds from California for failing to enforce these standards. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the necessity for drivers to read road signs and communicate with law enforcement [reuters.com].

Impact on Drivers and the Industry

The enforcement of English proficiency rules has led to concerns about job security among non-native English-speaking drivers. Some fear job loss due to the inability to meet the new standards. Training programs have been initiated to help drivers improve their English skills, aiming to comply with the regulations and maintain employment [apnews.com].

In summary, English language proficiency is vital for CDL holders to ensure safety, comply with regulations, and maintain effective communication within the industry.

Conclusion: A Call for Urgent Reforms in CDL Testing and Training

The imperative for reform in Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) testing and training has never been more critical. As our highways become increasingly congested and the volume of freight traffic swells, the risks associated with inadequately trained drivers escalate correspondingly. Organizations such as the American Trucking Associations (ATA) are at the forefront of this movement, advocating for comprehensive legislative reforms to strengthen CDL standards and ensure that every driver on the road meets rigorous safety requirements.

The recommendations put forth by the ATA outline a clear path towards enhancing the overall safety culture within the trucking industry. It is essential for legislators, safety advocates, and industry stakeholders to rally around these reforms, acknowledging that the current system contains serious gaps that jeopardize the safety of all road users. The collective goal must be to prioritize the welfare of our communities by advocating for higher training standards, improved oversight, and comprehensive compliance with existing regulations.

Hence, it is imperative that we act swiftly. Stakeholders, including trucking companies, training institutions, and regulatory bodies, must engage collaboratively to cultivate a safer and more competent driving workforce. Together, we must build a future where highway safety is unquestionable, and the well-being of every road user is assured. Let us pledge to prioritize safety on our highways and take decisive action towards reforming the CDL testing and training system today. Our roads depend on it.

CDL Compliance and Enforcement: Impact on Trucking Safety

Maintaining compliance with Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) regulations is crucial for ensuring safety on our highways. Recent data reveals alarming statistics that underscore the consequences of non-compliance:

1. Prohibited CDL Drivers: As of July 2025, over 190,000 CDL drivers are classified in prohibited status, primarily due to violations related to drugs and alcohol. This number represents nearly one in every 30 CDL holders who are legally barred from driving, raising significant concerns about public safety on the roads
   [source].
2. English Language Proficiency Violations: A comprehensive study found that inspections citing English language proficiency (ELP) violations often reveal deeper compliance issues. Specifically, these inspections recorded 2.5 times more non-ELP violations and nearly three times the number of serious violations compared to those without such citations. Carriers flagged for ELP violations also suffered from lower safety scores in vehicle maintenance and unsafe driving categories
   [source].
3. Non-Domiciled CDL Issuance: Systematic failures in issuing non-domiciled CDLs have been linked to multiple fatal crashes, demonstrating the danger posed by inadequately vetted drivers who operate commercial vehicles across state lines
   [source].
4. Financial Repercussions of Non-Compliance: Non-compliance with CDL regulations can lead to significant financial penalties. For instance, operating a driver before receiving a negative pre-employment drug test result can incur an average fine of over $5,000, with severe cases reaching close to $18,000. Furthermore, false duty status reports can yield fines averaging nearly $6,700, emphasizing the high costs associated with non-compliance that also harm the company’s reputation
   [source].
5. Benefits of Structured CDL Training: Implementing structured CDL training programs can lead to a 20-40% reduction in accident rates. These programs typically include training on defensive driving, hazard recognition, and vehicle handling, contributing significantly to safer roads
   [source].

In conclusion, the data highlights that rigorous CDL compliance and enforcement are not merely regulatory requirements but essential pillars supporting road safety. Addressing these issues can significantly enhance the safety of all road users and elevate the professionalism of the trucking industry.

Success Stories in Trucking Safety

The trucking industry has made significant strides in enhancing safety through innovative technologies and comprehensive programs. Here are some notable success stories:

1. TransAmerica Logistics’ Safety Transformation
   Facing a safety crisis in 2023, TransAmerica Logistics implemented a comprehensive safety program that led to a 73% reduction in accidents, annual savings of $2.8 million, and a 92% driver satisfaction score. Notably, they achieved zero fatalities over 24 months. source
2. Premier Logistics Corporation’s ADAS Implementation
   Premier Logistics Corporation integrated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) across its fleet, resulting in a 56% reduction in accident rates and the prevention of 340 potential collisions annually. This initiative also led to annual savings of $8.4 million in accident-related costs. source
3. Schneider’s Driver Safety Recognition
   Schneider recognized over 200 drivers for their outstanding commitment to safety, including 98 drivers with 10 or more consecutive years without a preventable accident and five drivers reaching four million safe miles. One driver, Greg Swift, achieved five million safe miles, marking only the third such milestone in the company’s history. source
4. TuSimple’s Autonomous Trucking Milestones
   TuSimple has advanced autonomous trucking by completing the world’s first driverless semi-truck run on public roads, covering an 80-mile route from Tucson to Phoenix without a human driver. By early 2022, they had completed 550 miles of autonomous operation on this route, demonstrating the potential for reducing human error and enhancing safety in long-haul trucking. source
5. Gatik’s Middle-Mile Autonomous Deliveries
   Gatik focuses on autonomous middle-mile deliveries, operating Level 4 autonomous trucks without safety drivers on repeated routes. Their technology has been integrated into Isuzu N-Series trucks, and they have partnered with companies like Walmart to enhance supply chain efficiency and safety. source

These examples highlight the trucking industry’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovative practices to improve safety and operational efficiency. As Amity Cataldo, a recognized Highway Angel, put it, “What I did was what I would hope any other driver would do.” This sentiment underscores the essential role individuals play in fostering a culture of safety within the industry. Each proactive step taken by drivers significantly contributes to the broader enhancement of safety standards in trucking.

Moreover, addressing these gaps in oversight not only requires robust regulatory measures but also underscores the critical importance of English language proficiency, which is essential for ensuring that all drivers can comprehend safety protocols and regulations effectively.