Effective Monday, all Texas Commercial Driver License and Commercial Learner’s Permit knowledge exams will be given in English only, according to a release from the Texas Dept. of Public Safety.
Prior to this, the CDL/CLP knowledge examinations were offered in both English and Spanish. DPS stated that the hands-on CDL skills test, which includes pre-trip inspection, basic control skills and the road test have always been conducted only in English.
The change will align Texas’ testing regimen with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s English language proficiency requirements. DPS officers and other certified commercial vehicle inspectors will continue to conduct English language proficiency assessments during standard traffic stops and at weigh stations.
Those evaluations are given to ensure drivers have the ability to effectively communicate for reasons of safety when operating on roadways, as well as compliance with federal law. Any commercial vehicle operator who can’t meet the language standard will be taken out of service, the release states.
Those scheduled for CDL or CLP knowledge testing should be prepared to complete all written and automated knowledge exams in English. Exam interpreters are prohibited, updated study materials for these exams, as well as the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver’s Handbook, are available to applicants free of charge at the DPS website.
This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: Texas commercial driver and learner’s permit exams now in English only
Reporting by Ronald W. Erdrich, Abilene Reporter-News / Abilene Reporter-News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
