National Police Association says English-only CDL testing would improve highway safety, protect officers

An organization representing U.S. law enforcement agencies spoke out in favor of legislation to tighten English language requirements for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) drivers.

On April 24, 2026, the National Police Association (NPA) announced its endorsement of both the House and Senate versions of the Secure Commercial Driver Licensing Act of 2025.

The National Police Association Endorses Requiring English Proficiency for Commercial Drivers https://t.co/eVqwDm6Ho6

— National Police Association (@NatPoliceAssoc) April 24, 2026

“The NPA commends Sen. Cotton and Rep. Barr for this necessary bill that will result in safer roads and improved law enforcement interactions,” the group said.

If passed, the Secure Commercial Driver Licensing Act would:

• Require all CDL tests be administered in English only.
• Mandate that applicants must already possess a standard driver’s license for one year before obtaining a CDL.
• Authorize the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to penalize states for failing to comply with these rules.  

The NPA said that the stricter CDL standards included in the bill would help protect the public as well as law enforcement officers interacting with truck drivers:

“Public safety is compromised when commercial vehicle operators are unable to read and understand traffic signage in English. During collisions and traffic stops, law enforcement officers depend on clear and accurate communication to make informed decisions. Language barriers hinder this process, increasing the potential for confusion and error. Moreover, when a driver cannot fully comprehend an officer’s questions or instructions, the likelihood of escalation rises, placing officers, drivers, and the public at greater risk.”

“We’ve seen the tragic fallout stemming from non-compliance with the fundamental requirement that commercial drivers be able to read English sufficiently. Allowing any driver on the road who can’t adequately follow traffic signs, let alone one operating a vehicle weighing several tons, is reckless,” said Paula Fitzsimmons, Legislative Director, National Police Association. “The Commercial Driver Licensing Act of 2025 requires that commercial driver’s license tests only be administered in English and gives the federal government authority to penalize states not in compliance. This will ensure that whoever is driving a truck or other commercial vehicle truly understands the rules of the road. This bill also benefits law enforcement by creating safer, more efficient interactions during traffic stops and collisions,” Fitzsimmons added.

Both versions of the Secure Commercial Driver Licensing Act of 2025 were referred to Committee after introduction last year.

In February 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced plans to move forward with rulemaking to require that all CDL testing be conducted only in English.

The NPA is a non-profit group that advocates on behalf of law enforcement officers and agencies.