Argue No More: English Is Now Officially the Language of the U.S.

Here’s the Deal – The Official Language Debate Is Over

For years, people have debated what the “official language” of the United States actually is. Some argued there wasn’t one. Others insisted it was obviously English. Well, as of now, the argument is officially settled at the highest level of government.

On March 21st, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order officially declaring English as the official language of the United States of America. A week later, on March 28th, a second Executive Order followed—this one specifically targeting the trucking industry.

That second order, titled “English Language Enforcement for Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators,” mandates that all CDL drivers must be able to speak, read, and understand English.

🚛 What Does This Mean for CDL Drivers?

The March 28th order reinstates and reinforces strict English proficiency requirements that have technically been in federal regulations for decades (see 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2)) but were inconsistently enforced—especially in recent years.

Under the new order:

• CDL drivers must be able to read road signs written in English.

• Drivers must be able to communicate effectively with DOT inspectors, law enforcement officers, and at weigh stations.

• All logbooks, shipping papers, accident reports, and official forms must be completed in English by the driver.

• Inspectors are now required to verify basic English proficiency during inspections and roadside stops.

Failure to meet these standards can result in drivers being declared “not qualified” to operate a CMV and placed Out of Service.

⚖️ Why It Matters: Clarity, Safety, and Accountability

This is not just about nationalism or identity—it’s about safety, communication, and clarity on the road.

Imagine a hazmat driver unable to read a placard, a logbook filled out in another language, or a police officer unable to understand a driver's explanation in an emergency. These scenarios are dangerous, preventable, and unacceptable under U.S. law.

🔍 Not New — Just Enforced Like Never Before

Some may argue that these rules were already on the books. That’s true. But what’s changed is the intensity of enforcement. Under this new Executive Order:

• All FMCSA inspections will now include a language compliance component.

• DOT auditors will be authorized to investigate whether companies are knowingly hiring drivers who lack English skills.

• Carrier responsibility increases, and violations may now affect safety ratings and insurance premiums.

📢 To the Industry: Prepare Now

At CellEx Consulting Group, we strongly advise carriers and fleets to:

• Verify English proficiency during pre-employment screening.

• Provide language training resources for drivers who need them.

• Train dispatchers and recruiters to understand the new expectations and document compliance properly.

📌 Final Thought: No More Debates

There’s no more gray area. The official language of the United States is English. And for CDL drivers, English isn’t optional—it’s now a strictly enforced federal requirement.

You may not like it, but now you need to comply with it.

Stay informed. Stay compliant. Stay ahead. Safety Lane Magazine & CellEx Consulting Group – Your Trusted Source for Industry Compliance & Safety.