Commercial Drivers In Texas – You Better Know English

Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to begin a "zero-tolerance" enforcement of federal English language proficiency requirements for commercial drivers. The new directive is aimed at increasing safety on Texas roadways and applies to all commercial drivers, whether they operate across state lines or within Texas.

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According to Governor Abbott, every commercial driver needs to communicate clearly in English to follow traffic laws, understand safety directions, and prevent accidents.

Zero-Tolerance Enforcement in Texas

At the governor's direction, DPS' Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Troopers and inspectors will now conduct English language proficiency reviews for all commercial license operators on Texas roadways. Additionally, DPS will stop issuing new intrastate commercial driver licenses to drivers who cannot speak English well enough to communicate with department personnel.

Recent Enforcement Actions

The new directive follows an executive order issued by President Donald Trump in June, which called for full enforcement of these federal regulations. Since that time, DPS and its partner agencies have already taken action against approximately 445 commercial vehicle drivers in Texas for English proficiency violations. Of those, about 336 were licensed in Mexico, with the remaining drivers licensed in Texas and other states and countries.

READ MORE: New Laws In Effect In Texas This Week

Governor Abbott stated that the strict enforcement of these regulations is a crucial step to keep Texans safe while maintaining the state's robust economy.

Office of the Texas Governor