Why the Change Matters

Many states previously allowed CDL tests in multiple languages, even though drivers were still required to demonstrate proficiency in English. For example, California offered tests in 20 different languages. Officials note that some third-party companies hired to administer CDL exams were not consistently enforcing the necessary standards.

Strengthening Oversight

The new English-only rule is part of a broader effort to improve safety in the trucking industry. Federal agencies will now more closely monitor CDL schools, inspect trucking companies, and ensure that drivers meet all qualifications.

Previously, trucking companies could register with minimal verification, and audits might not occur for more than a year. This system sometimes allowed carriers to bypass regulations. The updated approach requires stricter registration checks and more frequent inspections.

Officials emphasize that these changes are intended to support drivers, carriers, and the motoring public by making sure that every commercial driver has the skills needed to operate safely on U.S. highways.

What Truck Drivers Need to Know

• All new CDL applicants must now take their tests in English.
• Third-party CDL examiners will be held to stricter standards.
• States will enforce compliance to make sure drivers meet English proficiency requirements.
• The rule is designed to improve safety and help professional drivers operate with confidence.

Transportation authorities also state that these efforts complement ongoing initiatives to verify CDL school standards, ensure the accuracy of electronic logging devices, and improve the oversight of trucking companies.

By requiring English proficiency, regulators aim to make the highways safer for truck drivers, bus drivers, and all road users while supporting professional standards in the commercial driving industry.

Source: The Trucker

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The incident happened around noon on June 17. Reinhad, a professional driver with Halvor Lines Inc. out of Superior, Wisconsin, had only been with the company for two weeks when she came upon a vehicle stopped at a weigh station exit. The truck was blocking traffic, and something didn’t seem right.

“I said, ‘Are you okay?’” Reinhad recalled. “He couldn’t talk; I said, ‘Do you need medical attention?’ It took me forever to call 911. Can you believe 911 never answered?”

Unable to get through to emergency dispatch, she reached out to a nearby county’s state police, who then connected her with the right responders. Reinhad stayed with the man, who was on oxygen, until help arrived. First responders were able to assist the driver, and state troopers moved his truck safely out of the way.

“He was an older gentleman — hopefully he was okay,” she added.

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) honored Reinhad with a Highway Angel award for her actions. Since the program began in 1997, the TCA has recognized nearly 1,500 truck drivers who’ve gone above and beyond to help others while on the road. Sponsors, including EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance, support the program.

Reinhad’s quick thinking and willingness to step in highlight the kind of support truckers often provide for one another—especially in moments when every second counts.

Image and Source: Truckers News

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Selected from a pool of elite candidates, Carter’s recognition underscores his lifelong commitment to safe driving, community service, and advocacy for his fellow veterans. The Driver of the Year award, accompanied by an exclusive prize package, will be officially presented at a special event this summer at Cargo Transporters’ terminal in Claremont, North Carolina.

Honoring a Legacy of Excellence

“Perry exemplifies what it means to be a professional driver, a servant leader and an industry ambassador,” stated Matthew Sheffield, marketing and public relations coordinator at Cargo Transporters. “He has the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and community service, and is a powerful voice for veteran causes and a dedicated advocate within the trucking community.”

Carter, a U.S. Air Force veteran, is celebrated for his remarkable leadership and selflessness. His efforts to support organizations aiding veterans stand as key pillars of his inspiring story. These organizations include Ride of Pride-DTNA Cleveland, American Legion Posts, Purple Heart Homes, and American Warriors of Liberty, NC.

Carter also drives Cargo Transporters’ Ride of Pride tractor, The Carolina, a military-themed Freightliner honoring veterans.

A Stellar Career Behind the Wheel

“Perry has also maintained a flawless safety record over nearly 3 million miles and 32 years, over two decades of which have been with Cargo Transporters,” said DMC. His long-standing dedication to safe and efficient driving played a major role in earning him this accolade.

Perry’s deep ties to the trucking industry go beyond the driver’s seat. His roles as a 2024 TCA Driver of the Year and a 2025 ATA Road Team Captain further highlight his influence and impact. On top of that, his participation in Truck Driving Championships and involvement in advocacy efforts for both community and industry causes showcase the qualities that set him apart from his peers.

The DMC Insurance Driver of the Year Award

This award is presented annually by DMC Insurance to acknowledge outstanding drivers among its customers. Candidates are nominated by their respective organizations, with each company having the chance to submit up to three names.

For more information about the DMC Insurance Driver of the Year Award, click here.

Image Source: DMC
Source: The Trucker

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Wearing Two Hats: Army Reserve and NFI Trucker

Kacy’s journey into transportation began soon after high school when she made the bold decision to enlist in the U.S. Army Reserve in 2019. The discipline she learned during Basic Combat Training shaped her approach to every challenge, whether she’s in uniform or behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler.

“I joined right out of high school,” Kacy remembers. Her schedule is a balancing act between drill weekends and long drives, but Kacy says she’s adapted well: “Sometimes it’s hard to balance, but I feel like I’m so used to it because I joined (the Army) at such an early age. It’s just part of me now.”

Her dual life as an Army Reservist and a professional truck driver with NFI shows how the skills from military service translate seamlessly to civilian life, especially within the logistics industry.

Discovering Life on the Road

It was a friend in the trucking industry who first introduced Kacy to the idea of driving big rigs. “He would bring me to work with him, and I was always fascinated with how it works,” she says. Watching the ins and outs of trucking sparked her interest in pursuing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The transition wasn’t without nerves. “I was a little bit scared at first, because I’m a small female,” Kacy shares. “But I went through basic training and made it through — and I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I was like, ‘Well, I’m going to try.’ And now, here I am!”

That determination powered her through CDL training. She started as a yard jockey, spent time with another trucking company, and then, thanks to a recommendation from a friend, officially joined NFI—as well as the SheDrives NFI community, a dedicated space for women in trucking.

Empowerment Through SheDrives NFI

Now, with over two years as a full-time professional truck driver, Kacy has found a supportive workplace culture through SheDrives. “In my previous trucking job, there were only three women, including me,” she points out. NFI’s commitment to female drivers has made a big difference, creating more opportunities for women in trucking and mentorship within the industry.

“They’re friendly. I can talk to anybody in the office,” she says, highlighting the approachable and supportive team environment at NFI.

Kacy beams with pride when she talks about life on the road: “It feels great to be a truck driver,” she says. “I show up to the stores (in my rig) and a lot of people look at me like, ‘Are YOU a truck driver? Oh my gosh, you’re doing this!” Her presence in the field serves as a visual reminder that women belong in every part of the logistics industry.

Overcoming Roadblocks

Like many professional drivers, Kacy deals with challenges that go beyond the basics of driving. Navigating heavy vehicles requires a unique skill set and a great deal of patience, not just for the truck but also for other motorists. “They don’t understand (a truck’s) stopping distance and how (much space we need) to make turns,” she explains, pointing to frequent misunderstandings from drivers of smaller vehicles.

Kacy’s experiences behind the wheel underscore the importance of good training and a level-headed approach—qualities she now brings to new female truck drivers through mentorship and example.

Guidance for Women Entering Trucking

What advice does Kacy have for other women interested in joining the world of trucking? Her answer is clear: be patient and open-minded. “Listen to all the advice other truck drivers have to give. Don’t rush. Don’t let fear take over,” she says. She also cautions new drivers not to compare themselves to others. “Also, don’t compare yourself to other truck drivers; do what works for you.”

Kacy’s journey is proof that with the right attitude, determination, and community, women can excel in careers traditionally dominated by men.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Kacy H. sets a shining example for both her fellow Reservists and for the next generation of women eager to become truck drivers. She’s made it clear that support networks like SheDrives NFI, strong mentors, and a belief in your goals are crucial for success in the world of logistics.

Want to know more about the SheDrives NFI program and how it supports female truck drivers? Visit NFI online or connect with them on social platforms to join the conversation.

Image Source: NFI
Source: The Trucker

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This latest edition comes in three formats to suit various needs and preferences:

• Paperback
• Spiral-bound and laminated deluxe version
• Large-scale edition with maps 37% larger for enhanced readability

You can purchase the atlas online at randpublishing.com, as well as in travel centers, e-commerce outlets, and bookstores.

Features of the 45th Edition

The updated atlas is packed with essential tools for truckers, ensuring safer and more efficient journeys:

• Fuel Tax Information for accurate fuel expense and tax reporting.
• Tractor Trailer Inspection Procedures to help drivers stay compliant with safety standards.
• Hazmat Route Regulations offering updated guidance on hazardous material transport, including facts and resources.
• Restricted Routes and Low Clearances with revised details to avoid potential obstacles and plan safe routes.
• Weigh Station Locations providing up-to-date information on compliance checks.
• Mileage Directory with a comprehensive 22-page section that includes over 40,000 city-to-city mileages specific to truck routes.
• State and National Route Coverage with detailed information on designated routes.

Road Updates and Changes

The atlas also includes updates to reflect major roadway changes and improvements across the United States, such as:

• Interstate 42: Addition of new interstate sections to the North Carolina map.
• Highway 540: A newly added toll section south of Raleigh, North Carolina.
• Connecticut: Mileage-based exit numbers added for State Highways 8 & 15 and Interstates 291 & 384.
• US Highway 169: Limited access upgrades for a section northwest of Minneapolis.
• Interstate 344: New designation added to the Oklahoma City map.
• TN 690: A new limited access bypass section opened around Union City, Tennessee.

Enhance your routes and streamline your planning with the 45th edition of the Rand McNally Motor Carriers’ Road Atlas. This indispensable tool is expertly designed to meet the unique needs of professional truckers, ensuring safety and compliance on the road.

Image Source: Rand McNally
Source: Truckers News

The post Rand McNally Releases the 45th Edition of the Motor Carriers Road Atlas appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Matyka, a skilled flatbed driver, began his career with Roehl Transport in March 1984. He joined the company after hearing great things from a friend who had recently signed on. Roehl was a much smaller operation at that time, employing around 140 drivers. Early in his career, Matyka remembers connecting with another Roehl driver over the CB radio during a Michigan route. That driver was none other than Rick Roehl, who has since risen to become the company’s CEO, leading a workforce that now exceeds 3,000 team members.

“Alan demonstrates our cornerstone value of safety with every mile he drives. Thank you for your commitment, professionalism and dedication,” said CEO Rick Roehl, praising Matyka’s remarkable accomplishment.

A Lifelong Passion for Driving

Growing up on a farm in Wisconsin, Matyka discovered his passion for driving at a young age. Whether it was navigating a tractor, maneuvering a lawn mower, or hitting the road in a truck, driving came naturally to him. “Being a truck driver just fit,” Matyka explained. “I’ve got to have a steering wheel in my hands. You can always look back and see what you’ve done.”

Throughout his career, Matyka remained committed to constant improvement. He kept a close eye on other drivers, learning from their actions and finding smarter ways to approach challenges. This growth mindset helped him achieve the incredible feat of 5 million accident-free miles, making him only the second driver in Roehl’s history to accomplish this.

Reflecting on his decades behind the wheel, Matyka shared, “Everything you’ve got in life is attributed to having a good, steady job.”

What’s Next for Matyka?

With an illustrious career now behind him, Matyka looks forward to spending more time at home, focusing on projects around his property. That love for driving hasn’t disappeared, though. Whether on the highway or in his backyard, Matyka will always enjoy being behind the wheel.

“I’m going to go home and mow the grass and watch it grow for once,” he joked.

Source:  Truckers News
Source: Roehl Transport

The post Roehl Transport Driver Celebrates 5 Million Safe Miles and 40 Years on the Road appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

An owner-operator in NCI’s Reefer 48 state division, Williams has been with the company for over 20 years, embodying the dedication and professionalism that have made NCI a standout in the trucking industry.

“What makes Perry so valuable is he is always up for a challenge, no matter how bad or good it is. ” He understands the industry, with its highs and lows,” stated Jason Greer, Director of Livestock at NCI. “He always says, ‘that’s trucking.’ The fact is, you can give him a task and walk away knowing he will do everything in his power to get it done the right way, and if not, he lets everyone know what he needs to get it done.”

A Legacy of Versatility and Skill

Since joining NCI in June 2003, Williams has earned a reputation for versatility and professionalism. Over the years, he has worked in multiple divisions, including livestock, regional boxed beef, local flatbed, tallow, and hides, consistently demonstrating his ability to adapt.

Williams has achieved an extraordinary safety milestone, logging an impressive two million safe miles throughout his time with NCI.

His accomplishments include:

• Being named Driver of the Month for Kansas in 2023.

• Earning NCI’s Driver of the Month award in May 2024.

• Representing NCI as a company ambassador at National Beef’s corporate office in Kansas City, Missouri.

A Work Ethic Built on Strong Values

According to Jason Greer, Williams’ strong work ethic is rooted in lessons learned from his father.

“His father was all about customer service as he worked in the food industry, helping to get a famous West Coast favorite eatery to where it is today,” Greer explained. “From the way you looked, dressed, and communicated at the job. Perry still holds true to his father’s core values.”

Through his unwavering professionalism, exceptional communication skills, and positive attitude, Williams consistently sets the standard in the transportation industry. Known for his willingness to assist and his dedication to excellence, he is a valued member of the NCI team, consistently described as “Elite.”

National Carriers Inc. extends its gratitude to Perry Williams for his years of service and congratulates him on this well-deserved recognition.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: NCI

The post National Carriers Inc. Names Perry Williams as 2024 Driver of the Year appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This Year’s Honorees Include:

• Jessie King, a dedicated driver at FedEx Freight, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to educating, supporting, and empowering employees, assisting them in achieving career success.

• Atlas World Group has been acknowledged for the creation of a state-of-the-art DEI training program, which ensures that all employees receive impactful and pertinent education.

• Ceramex North America was recognized for initiating multiple programs that promote employee engagement and inclusivity, encompassing wellness initiatives, open communication pathways, and leadership development opportunities.

“The trucking industry is a vibrant source of quality careers for Americans from all walks of life. It is a place where individuals can find acceptance, belonging and personal fulfillment, serving as the glue that keeps America together. ATA believes that diversity has been a key factor in the industry’s past and present success,” said ATA COO Sarah Rajtik. “The purpose of the ATA Change Leader Award is to recognize ATA members who are committed to fostering a culture of acceptance and belonging for their employees.”

Nominations for the ATA Change Leader Award were evaluated based on their proficiency in creating inclusive programs, enhancing current initiatives, and measuring and establishing standards for a successful culture of acceptance, the ATA stated. The awards were distributed during the annual Management Conference and Exhibition held in Nashville.

Previous recipients of the ATA Change Leader Award include notable organizations such as Believers Trucking, Cargo Transporters Inc., Covenant Logistics, Garner Trucking Inc., Knight-Swift Transportation, Kodiak Robotics, Pilot Flying J, Werner Enterprises Inc., Cummins Inc., FedEx Ground, Locomation, Trimac Transportation, and U.S. Xpress.

Source: Truckers News

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