Transportation Secretary Celebrates Trucking Reform Milestone

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy is commemorating the one-year mark since President Trump’s executive order aimed at reforming the trucking industry. This initiative has led to significant federal actions, including the dismissal of over 20,000 drivers lacking English proficiency, the annulment of more than 28,000 improperly issued foreign commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs), and the closure of many fraudulent driving schools. Additionally, it has compelled non-compliant states, such as California and New York, to face substantial funding penalties.

“The Trump Administration has achieved a crucial milestone in managing a trucking industry that has functioned like the Wild West for far too long,” Duffy stated. “We reinstated logical road rules, such as making sure foreign drivers understand English and have valid employment documentation. When certain states neglected to ensure public safety, we took necessary actions to hold them responsible. We’re just getting started.”

Just over a year ago, Duffy urged states to adhere to Trump’s order regarding the illegal issuance of CDLs to non-residents. He emphasized that as recipients of federal transportation funds, states must comply fully with applicable laws.

Reports indicate that soon after implementing English proficiency tests for foreign truck drivers, many who were in violation began selling their trucks and leaving the roads.

On Friday, transportation officials reiterated that drivers who cannot read road signs will no longer be permitted to operate large vehicles. They highlighted continued efforts to enforce regulations that prevent unqualified foreign drivers from obtaining licenses.

Duffy’s initiative seeks to enhance highway safety by guaranteeing that all drivers can effectively communicate in English, particularly with regards to understanding road signage. During the Biden administration, the number of fatal accidents involving drivers who were not fluent in English surged dramatically.

• February 14, 2025: An undocumented driver was involved in a tragic multi-vehicle collision in a Wyoming tunnel, resulting in three fatalities and numerous injuries.
• August 12, 2025: A crash on the Florida Turnpike, caused by an undocumented driver making an illegal U-turn, led to three deaths.
• October 21, 2025: An undocumented driver’s failure to stop for traffic caused a serious accident on a California highway, killing three people.
• December 3, 2025: A collision at a railroad crossing involving an undocumented driver resulted in the deaths of the train crew.

Duffy noted several achievements in the drive to enhance road safety:

• In May 2025, he introduced new guidelines to reinforce English proficiency standards, reversing previous policies that had loosened these regulations. By June 2025, enforcement had resumed.
• Tests administered by the FMCSA ensure that drivers of large vehicles can communicate clearly with law enforcement.
• California faced a hefty fine for not enforcing English proficiency regulations, prompting compliance by January 2026.
• Since June 2025, over 20,000 truck drivers who did not meet basic qualifications have been removed from service.

The crackdown also targeted states issuing CDLs unlawfully:

• The FMCSA initiated a nationwide audit to hold states accountable for issuing non-compliant CDLs.
• More than 30 states were found to have issued these improper licenses, with formal actions taken against 26 states.
• California and New York faced significant fines for their inaction.
• Rules were strengthened to prevent ineligible foreign drivers from obtaining licenses, revoking over 28,000 wrongly issued documents.

“I’ve dedicated my career to supporting the individuals who drive our highways. These drivers represent the backbone of our country,” said Derek D. Byrds, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator. “This administration is finally providing truckers the support they need to do their jobs safely.”

A major benefit for American truckers is the reduction of unfair competition from improperly licensed drivers willing to work for lower wages. By removing over 20,000 ineffective drivers and revoking more than 28,000 illegitimate licenses, more opportunities are created for American operators.

Shannon Everett from American Truckers United noted the ongoing challenges in the trucking industry, attributing it to an influx of immigrants and an oversaturation of the labor market, which has pressured rates and placed many American drivers in financial peril. She expressed gratitude toward the Trump administration for its reevaluation of the situation.

The DOT also highlighted various success stories aimed at supporting American truck drivers:

• FMCSA has committed $300 million for truck parking subsidies starting in April 2025.
• Engagement with truck drivers has been prioritized, evident from Secretary Duffy’s participation in the Mid-America Truck Show.
• A proposal to impose speed limits on large vehicles was withdrawn due to safety concerns.
• FMCSA has confirmed exemptions for electronic logging devices for trucks older than 2000.
• Regulatory revisions are underway to streamline and reduce unnecessary federal regulations.
• Two pilot programs have been introduced to assess if flexible scheduling can enhance safety and manage fatigue.
• FMCSA has issued strict guidelines to protect drivers from pressure to violate safety regulations.

As the reform initiatives enter their second year, federal officials emphasize their commitment to restoring safety and fairness to a crucial industry. With regulations reinstated, illicit licenses revoked, and fraudulent institutions shut down, there’s a belief that a more stable and safer trucking environment is on the horizon. They argue that the groundwork laid under President Trump’s leadership is just the beginning of a broader transformation in the trucking workforce in the months ahead.