Motor Vehicles - As enacted, revises law relative to out-of-service orders issued to commercial drivers and related penalties. - Amends TCA Title 55 and Title 65, Chapter 15.

HB 1817 requires commercial drivers in Tennessee to demonstrate sufficient English language skills to read, speak, understand traffic signs, communicate with officials, and complete reports - aligning with federal rules (49 CFR 391.11(b)(2)). If an enforcement officer determines during a safety inspection that a driver cannot meet these requirements, they must issue an out-of-service order, and the driver’s commercial license may be suspended until they pass a state-administered English proficiency test. Employers face a $500 fine for violations (classified as a Class C misdemeanor), though exemptions apply for drivers with hearing-related exemptions documented under federal rules. The bill amends Tennessee Code Sections 55-50-403, 55-50-405, and 65-15-111 to implement these requirements, with full enforcement scheduled for January 1, 2027.