Recent Events Highlight Critical Safety Gaps
Recent tragic events have exposed serious flaws in CDL licensing across multiple states. A driver who failed basic English proficiency tests – correctly answering only 2 of 12 verbal questions and identifying just 1 of 4 highway signs – was somehow able to obtain commercial licenses and ultimately caused a fatal crash in Florida.
This should never happen.
The Federal Department of Transportation has now threatened to withhold millions in funding from California, Washington, and New Mexico for failing to properly enforce English Language Proficiency requirements. When drivers can’t read road signs or communicate with law enforcement, everyone on the road is at risk.
American Career Training: Setting the Safety Standard
At American Career Training in Redding, California, we’ve built our reputation on never compromising on safety or qualification standards. Here’s how we ensure every graduate meets the highest standards:
Rigorous English Proficiency Requirements
- Clear Policy: All instruction occurs exclusively in English – no exceptions
- Admission Standards: Students must demonstrate English proficiency through high school diploma, GED, or by passing our entrance examination
- Communication Focus: Our curriculum emphasizes effective communication with law enforcement and understanding of all road signage
Comprehensive Admission Standards
Unlike the gaps that led to this tragic incident, American Career Training requires:
- Clean 3-Year Driving Record from DMV
- Complete 10-Year Work History verification
- DOT Physical Examination and drug screening
- Background Check with full disclosure of any violations
- Valid California License and Class A permit before training begins
Superior Training Quality
- Small Class Sizes: 3-4 students per instructor during behind-the-wheel training (industry-leading ratio)
- 160-240 Hour Programs: Comprehensive training that goes far beyond minimum requirements
- On-Site Testing: We use our own trucks for DMV testing, ensuring familiarity and confidence
- 4.5-Acre Campus: Extensive on-site practice facilities for safe skill development
Professional Standards & Oversight
- Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education
- Licensed by California’s Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education
- Member of California Trucking Association and Commercial Vehicle Training Association
- Experienced Instructors: All instructors have minimum 3 years experience and maintain current CDLs
- Continuous Drug Testing for all staff and students
Zero Tolerance for Safety Compromises
Our curriculum includes extensive focus on:
- DOT Rules & Regulations
- Pre-Trip Inspections and Air Brake Systems
- Hazard Perception and Risk Management
- Professional Communication Standards
- Hours of Service Compliance
The Bottom Line
Every driver we graduate can read every road sign, communicate clearly with law enforcement, and operates with the highest safety standards.
The recent incident demonstrates what happens when states fail to enforce basic safety requirements. At American Career Training, we believe that protecting lives on our highways starts with ensuring every commercial driver is fully qualified – no shortcuts, no exceptions.
When you choose American Career Training, you’re not just getting a CDL – you’re joining a tradition of safety, professionalism, and excellence that employers trust and rely on.
Ready to start your career with proper training? Contact American Career Training at (530) 223-5693 or visit us at 8530 Commercial Way, Redding, CA 96002.
Licensed • Accredited • Trusted
