(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana has enacted a new transportation law that requires commercial truck drivers to demonstrate English proficiency and tightens rules for drivers from outside the United States.
Governor Mike Braun signed House Enrolled Act 1200 into law Thursday.
The measure requires all commercial driver's license holders to pass CDL knowledge and skills tests in English or American Sign Language.
The law also requires the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to revoke non-domiciled CDLs if a driver loses legal authorization to remain in the United States. State officials must coordinate with federal agencies to verify immigration status when necessary.
Under the new law, non-domiciled CDLs issued before March 1 will expire April 1 unless the driver holds a valid H-2A, H-2B or E-2 visa.
The legislation also increases penalties tied to fraudulent commercial licenses. Presenting a fake CDL or a foreign CDL without proper documentation is now a Level 6 felony. Violations can result in a $5,000 fine for the driver and a $50,000 fine for an employer.
A separate $50,000 penalty can also be issued to any business that trains a driver for a CDL while knowing the individual is not eligible for a license in Indiana.
Lawmakers say the changes come amid growing concern about deadly crashes involving semi-truck drivers who lack proper documentation.
The transportation bill also includes several other changes to Indiana law. The minimum age to obtain a driver's license is lowered to 16 years old. Drivers over age 75 must show proof of an eye exam within the previous 60 days when renewing a license.
The measure also blocks the Indiana Department of Transportation from implementing variable speed limits on state highways.
The law further requires marijuana billboards that were previously allowed to remain in Indiana to be removed by October 1, 2026.