Secure Commercial Driver Licensing Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Sen. Cotton, Tom [R-AR]
- Committees
- Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 16, 2025
Bottom line
The bill establishes English-only testing and a one-year prior driving experience requirement for commercial driver's licenses, aiming to enhance safety but potentially restricting access to the profession for non-English speakers and new drivers.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that all testing for the issuance or renewal of a commercial driver's license (CDL) must be conducted exclusively in English. It also requires that an individual must have held a standard driver's license for at least one year before being eligible to obtain a CDL, with an exemption for existing CDL holders. The Secretary of Transportation is granted authority to revoke a state's ability to issue non-domiciled CDLs or CLPs if the state fails to comply with these new federal standards.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that requiring commercial drivers to demonstrate English proficiency ensures they can understand road signs, communicate with law enforcement, and comprehend critical safety instructions, thereby enhancing public safety and national security. They also contend that a prior year of general driving experience ensures a foundational level of maturity and skill before operating large commercial vehicles.
Opponents contend
Opponents contend that the English-only testing requirement creates an unnecessary and potentially discriminatory barrier for otherwise qualified drivers, exacerbating existing commercial driver shortages. They argue that many non-English speakers are competent drivers and that language proficiency does not always correlate with driving ability. The prior experience requirement could also delay entry into a vital profession for new workforce entrants.
The bill is very short and can be read quickly, allowing ample time for public and legislative review of its provisions and potential impacts.
Section 3(a) and (b)
English-Only Commercial Driver's License Testing
This provision amends federal law to require that all tests related to obtaining or renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL) must be administered solely in English. This includes knowledge tests, entry-level driver training program tests, and tests conducted by third-party training providers. The Secretary of Transportation is mandated to issue or revise regulations to ensure this requirement is met.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that requiring English proficiency for CDL testing is crucial for public safety, ensuring that commercial drivers can understand road signs, communicate effectively with emergency services and law enforcement, and comprehend safety instructions and regulations.
Critics contend
Critics contend that this provision creates an unnecessary and potentially discriminatory barrier for qualified drivers, particularly immigrants, and could worsen the severe driver shortages currently facing the trucking industry. They argue that driving ability does not solely depend on English fluency.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances concerns about public safety and communication standards with potential impacts on workforce diversity, economic opportunity, and the supply of commercial drivers.
Section 4(a) and (b)
Prior Driver's License Requirement for CDL Issuance
This section mandates that an individual must have held a standard (non-commercial) driver's license for a minimum of one year before they can be issued a commercial driver's license. This requirement applies to all new CDL applicants, but explicitly exempts individuals who already hold a commercial driver's license as of the bill's enactment date.
Section 5
Revocation of State Authority for Non-Compliance
This section grants the Secretary of Transportation the authority to revoke a state's or other jurisdiction's ability to issue non-domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) or Commercial Learner's Permits (CLPs). This revocation power can be exercised if the Secretary determines that the state is not in full compliance with all applicable federal standards, including the new requirements established by this Act and any related regulations.