Seasonal ag truckers from Mexico face same English-language rules, DOL says
H-2A visa status does not shield seasonal agriculture commercial drivers from English-language requirements or the possibility of roadside out-of-service enforcement, DOL says. The post Seasonal ag truckers from Mexico face same English-language rules, DOL says appeared first on FreightWaves .
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has confirmed that H-2A visa holders who operate commercial motor vehicles in the United States must comply with English-language proficiency requirements. A Texas truck driver asked the DOL about the applicability of these requirements to H-2A workers who drive trucks using Mexican commercial licenses.
The DOL stated that the English-language proficiency rule applies to any individual employed under a temporary or permanent labor certification granted by the DOL, including H-2A visa holders. Employers must apply the English-language proficiency requirement in a fair and unbiased manner. The DOL's guidance, issued on May 14, 2025, applies prospectively to labor certification filings starting June 15, 2025.
While the Department of Transportation (FMCSA) is responsible for roadside screening and enforcement, the State Department conducts proficiency assessments during visa interviews. The DOL has not identified significant compliance issues since the implementation of the new rule.
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