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On Friday, the Trump administration announced new restrictions targeting Mexican train crews operating within the United States, citing concerns over safety.
The Federal Railroad Administration sent letters to Union Pacific and Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited after reports surfaced that some crew members struggled to understand English bulletins and communicate safety instructions effectively with inspectors.
“Whether you’re driving an 80-ton truck or a large freight train, proficiency in English is essential to ensure safety,” stated Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy during a news conference at Philadelphia International Airport on October 24, 2025. “Lack of English proficiency poses an unacceptable safety risk. These sensible measures will guarantee that every train crew operator can communicate effectively with inspectors and comprehend essential operational instructions. The Department of Transportation remains committed to prioritizing the safety of you and your community.”
According to the Department of Transportation, Mexican train crews will be restricted from traveling more than 10 miles into the U.S. from their entry point. Crews not certified in English must halt at customs inspection points, and interpreters must meet certified safety standards, the agency explained.
The DOT said crews from Mexico won’t be allowed to operate more than 10 miles into the U.S. from their point of entry. Uncertified crews must stop at the customs inspection point and interpreters must be certified under safety regulations, the agency said.
An aerial view of gantry cranes, shipping containers, and freight railway trains at the Union Pacific Los Angeles (UPLA) Intermodal Facility rail yard in Commerce, California. On Friday, the Trump administration imposed new restrictions on Mexican train crews in the United States. (Getty Images)
“Train crew operators who can’t speak English pose a significant safety risk that should not be ignored,” said FRA Administrator David Fink. “Dispatchers and first responders need to know that they can communicate with train crews, especially during times of emergency.”
The move came amid a series of deadly incidents involving commercial truck drivers living illegally in the U.S. who speak little to no English.
In September, the DOT announced changes to eligibility requirements for non-domiciled commercial learner’s permits (CLPs) and commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs).
The move came after an illegal immigrant truck driver who had obtained a limited-term commercial driver’s license from California allegedly killed three people when attempting to make an unauthorized U-turn in Florida.
Harjinder Singh, the trucker, was later charged with three counts of vehicular homicide.
