A bill for an act prohibiting the use of a language other than English for class C commercial driver's license examinations.

House File 2101 is a bill introduced in the Iowa General Assembly that seeks to mandate that all examinations for a Class C commercial driver's license (CDL) be conducted exclusively in English. This means that applicants would not have the option to take these tests in any other language. The bill was introduced on January 15, 2026, and referred to the House Transportation Committee. However, it did not progress further and died in committee.

Supporters of HF2101 argue that requiring CDL examinations to be conducted solely in English would enhance road safety by ensuring that all commercial drivers have a proficient understanding of English. They contend that this proficiency is crucial for reading road signs, understanding safety instructions, and effectively communicating in emergency situations. Proponents believe that this measure would lead to a more uniform and safer driving environment.

Opponents of HF2101 express concerns that the bill could disproportionately affect non-English-speaking individuals who are otherwise qualified to drive commercial vehicles. They argue that the bill may be discriminatory and could limit employment opportunities for immigrants and non-English speakers. Critics also point out that the bill could exacerbate labor shortages in the trucking industry by reducing the pool of eligible drivers.