Commercial drivers face enough regulations without having to monitor every legislative change coming out of Little Rock. However, Arkansas Act 604 introduced several new requirements that commercial drivers, motor carriers, and transportation companies should understand.
Signed into law in 2025, Act 604 created new criminal offenses, added documentation requirements for certain commercial drivers, established English proficiency standards, and clarified when foreign commercial driver’s licenses may be used in Arkansas.
The law carries consequences that range from civil fines to felony charges, making it one of the more significant updates to Arkansas commercial driver regulations in recent years.
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New Criminal Offenses Under Act 604
Act 604 created an entirely new offenses-and-penalties subchapter within Arkansas commercial driver license laws.
One of the most significant changes involves the creation of a new offense related to false foreign commercial driver’s licenses.
Under the law, knowingly presenting or using a false public record while representing it as a valid foreign commercial driver’s license may result in a Class D felony charge.
The law targets fraudulent licensing documents rather than legitimate foreign CDL holders operating lawfully within Arkansas.
Documentation Requirements for Certain Foreign CDL Holders
Act 604 also created a new offense involving commercial drivers who hold licenses issued by foreign governments.
Under the law, certain drivers operating commercial motor vehicles in Arkansas must possess either:
- A valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD); or
- A valid work visa.
The law specifically requires those documents to be in the driver’s immediate possession while operating the commercial vehicle.
This distinction matters because the issue is not simply whether authorization exists. The law focuses on whether the required documentation is available during operation of the vehicle.
The Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor
The Act includes an important provision that many summaries overlook.
Operating a commercial vehicle without proper documentation is generally classified as a Class D felony.
However, the law provides that the offense may be treated as a Class A misdemeanor if the driver establishes that a valid Employment Authorization Document or work visa existed at the time of the alleged offense.
This provision creates an important distinction between failing to possess documentation and lacking authorization altogether.
New English Language Proficiency Standards
Act 604 also formally establishes English language proficiency requirements for commercial drivers operating in Arkansas.
Drivers must be able to:
- Converse with the general public
- Understand highway signs and signals written in English
- Respond to official inquiries
- Complete reports and records
Unlike the documentation offenses, English proficiency violations are not classified as felonies or misdemeanors.
Instead, they are civil violations.
A first offense may result in a fine of up to $500. A second or subsequent violation may result in a fine of up to $1,000.
What Many Drivers Miss About the Reciprocity Rules
Much of the discussion surrounding Act 604 has focused on penalties, but the law also contains important reciprocity provisions.
Act 604 recognizes certain commercial driver’s licenses issued by:
- U.S. states and territories
- Canada
- Mexico
- Other jurisdictions recognized by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
The law does not prohibit all foreign CDL holders from operating in Arkansas.
Instead, it establishes conditions that must be met for lawful operation.
Drivers must also not be suspended, revoked, canceled, disqualified, or subject to an out-of-service order.
Why Commercial Drivers Should Pay Attention
For commercial drivers, a CDL often represents a livelihood rather than simply a driver’s license.
Act 604 creates new compliance obligations that affect documentation, licensing, and operational requirements. Understanding these rules can help drivers and carriers avoid unnecessary legal complications while operating in Arkansas.
We Simply Win
Criminal allegations involving commercial drivers can carry consequences that extend beyond fines and court appearances. Employment opportunities, professional licenses, and driving privileges may all be affected.
At Ludwig Law Firm, Kale Ludwig and Harry Warden prepares every case as if it is going to trial. If you are facing a CDL-related criminal charge in Arkansas, contact Ludwig Law Firm at 501-868-7500 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas Act 604
Does Act 604 apply to all CDL holders?
No. Certain provisions specifically address commercial driver’s licenses issued by foreign governments, while other provisions apply to commercial vehicle operators generally.
Is a lack of English proficiency a felony?
No. The Act classifies English proficiency violations as civil violations that carry monetary fines.
What is the penalty for presenting a false foreign CDL?
The offense is classified as a Class D felony under Arkansas law.
Can a driver be charged if they have a valid work visa but do not have it with them?
The law focuses on whether the required documentation is in the driver’s immediate possession while operating the vehicle.
Does Act 604 ban foreign CDL holders from driving in Arkansas?
No. The Act contains reciprocity provisions recognizing certain foreign-issued commercial driver’s licenses when other legal requirements are met.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation.