Rhode Island DMV assures public that their ELP policies are in full compliance with federal requirements

The Rhode Island DMV is working to assure the public that their policies regarding English Language Proficiency in the trucking industry are in full compliance with federal requirements. 

This week, in the wake of national concern sparked by the infamous u-turn wreck, RI DMV administrator Bud Craddock spoke to the media to assure the public that the process to obtain a CDL in Rhode Island is strict, and follows all guidelines from the federal government. He says that 10 Rhode Island CDL tests are administered each day in Quonset, Rhode Island. 

“The road test is conducted fully in English. They have to read the signs, they have to be able to take directions. They cannot have an interpreter in the vehicle with them so it has to be strictly English,” Craddock said. “It’s very intensive. It’s very thorough.”

Craddock says that instructors ensure that the driver understands English during the road test, but that the written portion is offered in multiple languages, which is also in accordance with federal guidelines. 

“Through observation you have one of the road test examiners in the vehicle with the candidate and as they’re telling them, they will give them directions, make a turn here, stop, back up and the individual will respond appropriately,” he said. “If they don’t and if there’s any problems then that would lead to a failure and they would not be able to get their CDL license. When they leave here we’re confident they are proficient in English.”

“Federal English Language Proficiency requirements exist, by statute, for a reason,” the Rhode Island Trucking Association wrote to NBC 10. 

“The vast majority of professional drivers, foreign born or otherwise, meet these requirements and take pride in their responsibility to keep America moving safely. But allowing bad actors to bypass the law undermines that commitment and threatens the credibility of the entire system.

Our industry has long supported strict enforcement of English proficiency standards, along with the broader regulatory framework that keeps our roads safe and fair. States are now being held accountable for their CDL licensing procedures, and we urge swift, consistent action to close these dangerous loopholes. Safety must never be optional.”