English language proficiency is a critical legal requirement for commercial drivers under FMCSA regulations and can significantly impact your ability to operate safely and legally on California highways.
Fleet managers and commercial drivers operating in and around Truckee, CA must be aware of the updated regulations and enforcement trends related to language requirements.
English Language Proficiency & Bigger & Harman’s Nevada County Commercial Traffic Ticket Attorneys
Under FMCSA regulations commercial drivers operating in the USA must be able to read and speak the English language sufficiently to understand highway traffic signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and communicate with the public.
According to this excerpt from FMCSA 49 CFR Part 391.11, General Qualifications of Drivers, “a person is qualified to drive a motor vehicle if he/she—.
Can read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language, to respond to official inquiries, and to make entries on reports and records.”
This rule has been in place for years, but enforcement is about to get stricter.
Although the 2016 FMCSA memo allowed the use of Smartphone translation apps and interpreters, leading to relaxed enforcement, the 28 April POTUS Executive Order now calls for stricter compliance.
Drivers who cannot meet English proficiency standards will be placed out of service, potentially causing major disruptions across the commercial trucking sector.
As of May 1, 2025, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has added English language proficiency as part of its Out-of-Service (OOS) criteria.
That means commercial drivers who cannot communicate effectively in English during a roadside inspection may be placed out of service immediately.
For fleet managers, this is a major liability risk. For drivers, it could mean a sudden halt in operations, possible fines, and CSA point penalties.
The weight station at Truckee, CA, on the Donner Pass along I-80 in Nevada County sits at a vital crossroad for interstate trucking routes between California and Nevada, making it a common inspection point for CHP and DOT officers.
If your driver is pulled over and deemed unable to meet English proficiency standards, your load—and schedule—could be delayed if another driver isn’t available to take over.
Fleet managers must ensure their drivers meet all FMCSA general qualifications, including language requirements.
Implementing internal assessments or offering driver language training can prevent costly violations. Regular compliance checks are now more important than ever.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
When violations arise—whether due to miscommunication during an inspection or alleged noncompliance with qualification standards—it's important to consult with a traffic attorney familiar with FMCSA rules and California commercial traffic law.
Bigger & Harman’s Nevada County commercial traffic attorneys have extensive experience defending CDL holders in Truckee in Nevada County and across CA.
Whether you're fighting an out-of-service order, a misinterpreted citation, or need help navigating DOT compliance, their team can work to reduce violations or dismiss penalties.
Hiring an experienced traffic attorney can help protect your drivers’ CDL and help keep your fleet moving without unnecessary interruptions.
Remember, too, that Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) severity points from moving violations and their time-weight multiples become a part of your Safety Measurement System (SMS) percentile for up to two years and could affect your fleet insurance premiums.
Reach out today to get sound legal advice and protect your commercial driving record.
Consult Bigger & Harman About English Language Proficiency & Other Commercial Violations in Truckee, CA
If you have traffic tickets that need resolution in Truckee Courthouse, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300 — Se habla Español 349-9755.
Email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our contact form to arrange a free consultation.
References:
The CVSA article dated 1 May 2025, CVSA to Add English Language Proficiency to Its Out-of-Service Criteria.
FMCSA CFR 49 Part 383.31, Notification of Convictions for Driver Violations.
FMCSA CFR 49 Part 383.51, Driver Disqualifications.
FMCSA CFR 49 Part 391.11, General Qualifications of Drivers.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.