HR5800-119

What This Bill Does

The SAFE Drivers Act creates a standardized English proficiency requirement for commercial driver's licenses and commercial learner's permits. It defines an English proficiency test as an FMCSA-approved standardized assessment of reading, writing, and understanding English in commercial motor vehicle operation, including road signs, safety instructions, spoken emergency communications, driver logs, reports, and required documentation. New CDL applicants and renewal applicants must pass the test before a license or permit is issued or renewed. FMCSA must develop, maintain, and approve the test and guide States on administration. State motor vehicle agencies must administer and verify the requirement, annually report applicant volume, pass rates, and compliance outcomes, and remain subject to DOT compliance monitoring. If DOT finds substantial noncompliance, it may withhold portions of federal funds under 49 U.S.C. 104(b)(4) and 31313 until the State demonstrates compliance.

Who Benefits and How

English-proficient CDL applicants benefit because the test creates a uniform federal standard for licensing and renewal. Motor carriers concerned about safety benefit if drivers must demonstrate ability to read road signs, understand safety instructions, and complete required logs. FMCSA oversight staff benefit from annual State reporting on test volume, pass rates, and compliance outcomes. Public road users benefit if commercial drivers have stronger English proficiency for emergency communications and safety instructions.

Who Bears the Burden and How

Limited English proficient CDL applicants face a new licensing barrier before issuance or renewal. State driver licensing agencies must administer the test, verify compliance, and send annual reports to FMCSA. FMCSA test-development staff must build and maintain the standardized assessment and State guidance. Noncompliant States risk withheld federal highway or motor-carrier safety funds until they demonstrate compliance.

Key Provisions

• Defines an FMCSA-approved English proficiency test for commercial motor vehicle operation.
• Requires CDL and commercial learner's permit applicants to pass the test before issuance or renewal.
• Requires FMCSA to develop, maintain, approve, and guide State administration of the test.
• Requires States to report applicant testing, pass rates, and compliance outcomes annually.
• Authorizes DOT to withhold portions of federal funds from substantially noncompliant States.