INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA — The National Police Association announced its endorsement on April 24, 2026, of the Secure Commercial Driver Licensing Act of 2025, a bill that would require all commercial driver’s license tests to be administered in English only and give the federal government authority to penalize states that fail to comply.
The bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate on October 16, 2025, by Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), with a companion House version introduced by Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) on October 17. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Bill Hagerty (R-TN) are also among the bill’s sponsors. Both versions were referred to committee after introduction. The legislation was written in response to a fatal crash in August 2025 on the Florida Turnpike involving truck driver Harjinder Singh.
What the Bill Would Do
If passed, the Secure Commercial Driver Licensing Act would require all CDL testing — including for non-domiciled CDLs — to be conducted only in English, require applicants to hold a standard driver’s license for one year before obtaining a CDL, and authorize the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to suspend or revoke a state’s authority to issue non-domiciled CDLs for non-compliance with federal standards.
In February 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation separately announced plans to move forward with rulemaking to require all CDL testing to be conducted in English only.
Why the NPA Is Supporting It
The NPA said the bill addresses safety concerns for both the public and law enforcement officers. “Public safety is compromised when commercial vehicle operators are unable to read and understand traffic signage in English. During collisions and traffic stops, law enforcement officers depend on clear and accurate communication to make informed decisions. Language barriers hinder this process, increasing the potential for confusion and error,” the organization said.
NPA Legislative Director Paula Fitzsimmons said allowing drivers who cannot read English to operate commercial vehicles is reckless. “We’ve seen the tragic fallout stemming from non-compliance with the fundamental requirement that commercial drivers be able to read English sufficiently. Allowing any driver on the road who can’t adequately follow traffic signs, let alone one operating a vehicle weighing several tons, is reckless,” Fitzsimmons said. “This will ensure that whoever is driving a truck or other commercial vehicle truly understands the rules of the road. This bill also benefits law enforcement by creating safer, more efficient interactions during traffic stops and collisions.”
What Lawmakers Said
“By issuing CDLs to illegal immigrants, states like California are undermining federal law and endangering public safety,” said Congressman Barr. “Our bill restores accountability by strengthening President Trump’s authority to hold liberal states in check when they defy federal law and recklessly grant CDLs to illegal immigrants.”
Senator Cotton said: “For everyone’s safety, you must be able to read and understand English road signs when operating a commercial vehicle. Our bill would require commercial drivers to pass the test given in English.”
Senator Tuberville added: “If you drive a truck in the United States, you should be able to speak English fluently. This protects our law enforcement officers and the general public. Whether taking their kids to school, driving to work, or going to the grocery store, Americans shouldn’t feel in danger every time they get on the road.”
The NPA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting for law enforcement through advocacy, education, and the courts.
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