DOT Cracks Down on English Rules for Train Crews Operating in U.S.
Summary
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is enforcing English-language proficiency requirements for train crews operating across the U.S.–Mexico border after inspections found some inbound crew members had trouble interpreting General Track Bulletins and communicating with inspectors. The FRA has clarified that Mexican crews may not operate more than 10 miles into the U.S. from their entry point, uncertified crews must stop at customs inspection points, and any interpreters must be certified under safety rules. DOT officials warn that failures to comply could prompt enforcement action.
Key Points
- FRA inspections of CPKC and Union Pacific found instances of limited English comprehension among some cross-border crew members.
- English proficiency is required because key documents and radio communications are issued in English; poor understanding poses safety risks.
- Mexican crews are restricted to operating no more than 10 miles into the U.S. from their point of entry unless certified.
- Uncertified crews must stop at customs inspection points; interpreters used must themselves be certified under safety regulations.
- DOT cautioned that non-compliance could trigger enforcement actions by the administration.
Content summary
During focused regulatory oversight last autumn, FRA inspectors noted inbound train crew members from Mexico struggling to read and act on operational bulletins and to communicate safety requirements in English with FRA personnel. FRA administrator David Fink and Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy emphasised that the ability to communicate in English is essential for routine operations and, critically, during emergencies. The FRA has sent letters to the two railroads involved — Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) and Union Pacific (UP) — to clarify certification expectations for locomotive engineers and conductors under 49 CFR §§240 and 242. The agency’s move reinforces that railroads may only certify crew members who possess the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to operate safely in the U.S. environment.
Context and relevance
This enforcement follows broader DOT efforts in recent years to tighten language and licensing compliance across cross-border transport operations. For rail operators, logistics planners and border-region stakeholders, the clarification affects crew planning, certification programmes and cross-border scheduling. It also raises potential operational costs and administrative burdens where additional training, certification or certified interpreters are required. From a safety and risk-management perspective, the rule reduces ambiguity in emergency response and regulatory inspections.
Why should I read this?
Short version: if your operation touches cross-border rail, this matters. DOT just tightened the playbook on who can drive and how far they can go — and it isn’t subtle. It affects crew rostering, certification checks, customs stops and emergency communications. Read the details so you’re not caught out by new limits, extra paperwork or enforcement action.
Source
Source: https://www.supplychain247.com/article/dot-enforces-english-rules-cross-border-rail-crews
Article Date: 2026-01-05T08:16:00-05:00
Article Image: https://www.supplychain247.com/images/2025_article/25-12-30-Getty-Mexico-Border-FRA-Train-Crew-English-WorkSafety247.jpg