Trump administration tightens rules for Indian drivers, thousands fail new English test

Washington (The Uttam Hindu) – The Trump administration has cracked down on Punjabi youth seeking jobs in the US based on their driving skills. The government has now made it mandatory for truck drivers to speak and understand English. To achieve this, the government has instituted a formal "English speaking test," and drivers who fail it are having their licenses suspended.

Government tightens its grip after road accidents: The rule has been implemented after several accidents on US roads in recent months. According to reports, many of these truck drivers are of Indian origin, especially from Punjab. The Transport Department said that on-road English tests have been introduced across the country. Police officers now stop truck drivers right on the road and ask them questions in English – such as asking the meaning of traffic signs, directions or rules.

According to US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, "More than 7,000 foreign drivers have failed the test so far. Most of them are of Indian or South Asian origin. Their licenses have been suspended for failing."

Knowing English is now a legal requirement: Duffy explained that US law requires all truck drivers to be able to read traffic signs and communicate in English. This was neglected during the Obama administration, allowing many drivers to obtain licenses despite their poor English. However, the Trump administration has now increased its enforcement, declaring it a safety issue.

English isn't strictly required for commercial licenses in California. Consequently, most drivers of Indian origin obtain their licenses there. Following the protests, the Trump administration has suspended California's transportation development funding. Adalberto Campero, CEO of an American truck chain, said this decision poses a significant loss to the logistics industry, as it will force many experienced drivers off the road.

1.5 lakh Punjabi drivers active in America: According to a 2021 report, approximately 7.2 lakh people of foreign origin are associated with the American transport industry, of which approximately 1.5 lakh are Punjabi drivers. A report by the financial institution Altline stated that there is a shortage of approximately 24,000 truck drivers in America. Due to this shortage of drivers, the freight industry is losing approximately $95.5 million every week. In such a situation, strict rules like English test can further increase this crisis.