DOL Enforces English Proficiency Rules for Foreign Commercial Drivers

Key Details The Department of Labor will require companies hiring foreign workers as commercial motor vehicle drivers to specify English-language proficiency in job orders and applications. The new mandate takes effect June 14, 2024, giving employers 30 days to comply with the requirement. Why It Matters According to acting Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling, the English proficiency requirement is essential for road safety. Foreign workers operating commercial motor vehicles must demonstrate the ability to speak, read, and comprehend English as part of their job qualifications. Compliance Requirements All temporary and permanent labor certification applications for CMV driver positions must now include clear English language proficiency standards aligned with federal requirements. Employers who fail to include this mandate in their filings will receive a "Notice of Deficiency" from the Department of Labor. Enforcement Actions Noncompliance will result in processing delays for labor certification applications. The Office of Foreign Labor Certification will pause processing until employers correct their filings and meet the new standards. Broad Impact The Department of Labor emphasizes this action promotes safety while ensuring clarity and consistency across the industry. The rule applies prospectively to all new filings submitted after the June 14 deadline.