These criteria are used by enforcement to determine whether a driver or vehicle poses an imminent hazard. If it does, that unit is placed out of service until the issue is corrected.

A total of 17 changes were approved for 2026. Here is the full breakdown.

Full List of 2026 Updates

• “Part I, Item 2. Operator’s/Chauffer’s License or Permit (Non-CDL) b. and c.” and “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. and d. Endorsements and Restrictions” were amended to separate endorsements and restrictions and clarify the violation codes.
• A note on intrastate restriction was added to “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. Endorsements and Restrictions.”
• “Part I, Item 8. Intoxicating Beverages, b. Be on Duty or Operate” was amended to state that when the driver has wine or beer with an alcohol content of 0.5% or more, or any distilled spirit, the driver is out of service.
• “Part I, Item 10. Driver’s Record of Duty Status – U.S., a. Property-Carrying Vehicles (6) and (7)” were amended to include situations where the inspector can determine actual driving or rest periods, even if records are false.
• A new out-of-service condition was added under “Part I, Item 10… (8)” for both property and passenger carriers when tampering makes it impossible to determine what events occurred.
• The reference to automatic onboard recording devices was removed from “Part I, Item 10… Footnote 6” due to regulatory changes.
• The note in “Part I, Item 11. Driver’s Record of Duty Status – Canada, h. No Daily Log” was moved to “i. No Previous 14 Days” for better alignment.
• Out-of-service conditions in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems” related to defective brakes and air brake hose or tubing were moved into the 20% defective brake threshold section. The term service gladhands was updated to service air connections.
• Hydraulic and electric brake lining measurement language was updated to better align with federal regulations.
• “Parking Brake” now reads “Parking or Emergency Brake” to reflect both functions.
• The ExTe Com90 securement system was added under cargo securement rules for logs.
• A new damage chart was added to the tiedown defect table for wire rope.
• A section specific to countersunk screws was added under upper coupler requirements, including kingpin.
• New language addresses missing pieces of rims, and the previous language about center holes between cracks was removed.
• “Part II, Item 14… Hubs (5)” was removed due to inconsistent enforcement.
• A new out-of-service condition applies when emergency exits are marked but do not include operating instructions.
• Language was added to clarify that missing placards for multiple divisions within the same class can result in an out-of-service condition.
• A new chart outlines seven types of federal out-of-service orders to improve enforcement clarity.

What This Means on the Road

These updates are not minor wording changes. They shape how inspections are handled and how quickly a situation can escalate into an out-of-service violation.

Areas like ELD accuracy, brake condition, and cargo securement continue to be a high focus. At the same time, clearer language around licensing, placards, and equipment standards removes some of the gray area that used to exist during inspections.

Staying Prepared

The full 2026 out-of-service criteria is available through the CVSA online store and as a mobile app.

Knowing these updates before the next inspection can be the difference between rolling through or sitting until a violation is cleared. Staying organized, keeping equipment in check, and understanding how inspectors apply these rules all play into keeping operations moving.

For questions about the criteria, contact Kerri Wirachowsky, CVSA’s director of inspection programs, at kerri.wirachowsky@cvsa.org or call 202-998-1650.

The post CVSA 2026 Out of Service Criteria Now Active Across North America appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This update coincides with the Department of Transportation’s decision to phase out prior leniencies around English language proficiency introduced during the Obama administration.

Two-Step Evaluation Process for ELP Compliance

The FMCSA’s new enforcement framework involves a two-step process comprising a driver interview and a highway traffic sign recognition assessment. All roadside inspections will begin in English to assess compliance with the rule. This structured approach enables inspectors to uphold the regulation systematically.

Driver Interview

The first step assesses whether the driver can “respond to official inquiries by speaking English sufficiently.” During this interview, the FMCSA mandates that interactions must take place solely in English. Tools like interpreters, cue cards, or translation apps cannot be used as they may conceal deficiencies in English communication abilities.

FMCSA clarifies if the driver is unable to respond sufficiently in English, inspectors are instructed to issue a violation under 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2).  Drivers who fail the interview do not proceed to the second evaluation phase.

Highway Traffic Sign Recognition

If the driver passes the interview, the next step evaluates their ability to read and comprehend U.S. highway traffic signs in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The assessment ensures that commercial drivers understand key road signage, including dynamic message boards encountered during operations.

Enforcement Actions and Penalties

If violations of the English language proficiency regulation are identified, inspectors must document all supporting evidence, including responses or a lack thereof. FMCSA policy also requires follow-up actions, such as placing non-compliant drivers out of service (OOS) and initiating potential disqualification from operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce.

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has already incorporated ELP non-compliance into its North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria, effective June 25. FMCSA guidance directs inspectors to inform out-of-service drivers that operating a commercial motor vehicle while under OOS conditions is strictly prohibited until compliance is restored.

However, FMCSA notes that drivers operating within U.S.-Mexico border commercial zones may be cited for violations but will not face OOS placement or disqualification.

Exemptions for Hearing Impairments

Per FMCSA’s guidance, hearing-impaired drivers with an exemption under 49 CFR § 391.41(b)(11) are protected from disqualification under 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2). These drivers are not required to meet verbal English communication standards.

Enhancing Safety Through Stronger Compliance

With the introduction of the two-step evaluation, FMCSA aims to ensure that commercial drivers possess adequate English-speaking skills and can interpret critical road signage, bolstering safety throughout U.S. highways.

For more updates on FMCSA regulations and compliance standards, stay connected to industry news.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

The post FMCSA Introduces New Two-Step Enforcement for English-Speaking CDL Requirement appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

What’s New in the 2025 Out-of-Service Criteria?

Last year, CVSA’s voting members approved 15 key modifications to the out-of-service criteria. These adjustments are now active and will impact inspections across North America. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most notable changes:

• License Endorsements & Restrictions: Updates have been made to “Part I, Item 2. Operator’s/Chauffeur’s License or Permit (Non-CDL), B. Endorsements and Restrictions” and “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. Endorsements and Restrictions” to clarify Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Certificate requirements.
• Commercial Learner’s Permit: “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, b. Commercial Learner’s Permit (1)” now explicitly states that a supervising driver for a learner must be fully authorized to operate a commercial vehicle.
• Medical Certification Updates: In “Part I, Item 4. Driver Medical/Physical Requirements, b. Medical Certificate (3),” passenger-carrying and property-carrying vehicles are now included under the same out-of-service condition, removing property-carrying vehicles from a separate clause.
• Brake System Changes: A new out-of-service condition has been added for inoperative brakes caused by an unplugged electrical cable in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, A. Defective Brakes, (7) Hydraulic and Electric Brakes, (H).” Additionally, language was added to address a disconnected service gladhand in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing.”
• Air Brake Hose & Tubing Adjustments: The previous out-of-service condition for crimped hoses and tubing, which restricts airflow, has been removed from “Part II, Item 1.” Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing, (5).”
• Brake Hose and Line Markings: Language has been introduced to “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing” and “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, o. Hydraulic Brakes (3)” to address cases where brake hoses or lines are marked for applications other than the specified brake system.
• Tractor Protection System: “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, l. Tractor Protection System” now requires both the primary and secondary systems to be below 20 psi, rather than just one.
• Cargo Securement Clarifications: Additional language has been included in “Part II, Item 2. Cargo Securement, a. General Securement” to clarify violations of regulation 392.9(a)(2).
• Lighting Device Updates: A new section has been added specifically for projecting load lamps under “Part II, Item 9. Lighting Devices (Headlamps, Tail Lamps, Stop Lamps, Turn Signals and Lamps/Flags on Projecting Loads), b. At Any Time – Day or Night.”
• Suspension System Adjustments: Clarifications regarding U-bolt bottom plates have been included in “Part II, Item 11. Suspensions, a. Axle Parts/Members (1).” A note and updated diagram have been added to “Part II, Item 11. Suspensions, d. Suspension Connecting Rod and Tracking Component Assembly (2).”
• Tire Regulations: Additional notes have been added to “Part II, Item 12. Tires, a. Any Tire on Any Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit, (8)” and “b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit (4)” regarding rubber mud flaps.
• Tire Leaks & Automatic Tire Inflation Systems (ATIS): In “Part II, Item 12. Tires, b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit,” a new out-of-service condition has been introduced for tires without ATIS if a leak is present in the tread area. Meanwhile, leaks in the sidewall are now considered out of service, regardless of whether ATIS is used.
• Radial & Bias Tires Unified: Changes to “Part II, Item 12. Tires, b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit, (6)-(7), (8)-(9)” eliminate separate out-of-service conditions for radial and bias tires, merging them into a single category.

What This Means for Drivers

These updates have been fully integrated into the North American Standard Inspection Program, impacting training materials, inspection procedures, operational policies, and training videos. Truck drivers should ensure they understand these changes to remain compliant during inspections.

For further details, truckers can contact CVSA Director of Inspection Programs Kerri Wirachowsky by calling 202-998-1650.

The post New CVSA Out-of-Service Criteria Now in Effect appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The following devices have been added to the Revoked Devices List:

• BLUE STAR ELD
• ROAD STAR SOLUTIONS
• United ELD
• Speed ELD
• Two TrackEnsure ELD models

According to FMCSA, these devices have been removed due to their failure to meet the minimum standards outlined in 49 CFR part 395, subpart B, appendix A. The revocation officially takes effect immediately.

Next Steps for Motor Carriers

FMCSA has confirmed it will issue an industry-wide email notifying motor carriers of the steps required for compliance. If you are currently using one of the affected ELDs, you’ll need to do the following:

1. Stop using the revoked ELDs immediately. Switch to paper logs or logging software to track your hours of service data temporarily.

1. Replace the devices. Ensure you install compliant ELDs listed on FMCSA’s Registered Devices list by March 9, 2025.

The FMCSA has provided motor carriers with a 60-day grace period to remove and replace the revoked devices.

Can the Revoked ELDs Be Reinstated?

If the affected ELD providers address and correct the reported deficiencies, their devices may be reinstated on FMCSA’s list of registered devices. If reinstated, the FMCSA will inform the industry of the update.

During this interim period, enforcement officers are encouraged to avoid citing drivers using the affected devices for violations such as 395.8(a)(1) (No record of duty status) or 395.22(a) (Failing to use a registered ELD). Instead, they may review driver records through paper logs, logging software, or even the revoked device, used as a back-up display method, to ensure hours of service data is available.

What Happens After March 9, 2025?

Beginning March 9, motor carriers continuing to use any of the listed revoked devices will face non-compliance penalties. Safety officials encountering drivers with these devices on or after this date will:

• Cite violations under 395.8(a)(1).

• Place drivers out-of-service (OOS) per the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance Out-of-Service Criteria.

It is strongly recommended that motor carriers take proactive action now to avoid compliance issues, especially if the deficiencies for these ELDs are not resolved by their providers in time.

Stay Updated

To access more information about ELD requirements, approved devices, and FMCSA’s ongoing updates, visit the FMCSA ELD website.

Source: Truckers News

The post FMCSA Just Removed 6 ELDs From Its Approved List—Here’s What You Need to Know! appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.