Mexican truck drivers in Juarez are scrambling to learn English after new rules from the FMCSA went into effect on June 25. These rules mean drivers entering the U.S. now have to show they can answer questions in English and read road signs during inspections.
Why it matters: If a driver can't show enough English, they're taken off the road right away. This can mean late deliveries and extra costs for trucking companies sending out a backup driver.
- Companies like Fletes Sotelo in Juarez are now paying for English classes so their drivers can keep working across the border.
- Drivers are mostly learning how to answer basic questions and talk about their trucks, work, and what to say if stopped by law enforcement.
Between the lines: “When you learn another language, your worth goes up. The more you know, the more you get,” said instructor Gustavo Morales Rodriguez, who is helping drivers feel ready.
- Most Mexican truckers from Juarez cross only into El Paso, so they're used to seeing English signs. But they admit it’s tougher to clearly explain things in English if pulled over deeper in Texas or other states.
- Some drivers worry about not being "eloquent" enough or freezing under pressure, reported KGET 17 News.
With these new checks in place, trucking companies along the border are hoping their investment in English lessons keeps their drivers rolling and deliveries on schedule.