Long-Haul Truck Driver (OTR) — On-the-job English

License and registration, please.

🔴 The officer wants your CDL and registration — hand them over.

Where are you headed, and what are you hauling?

State your destination and cargo in English.

Step out of the vehicle — this is a Level 1 inspection.

🔴 Comply; Level 1 is a full inspection. Failing to answer in English can mean out-of-service (since June 25, 2025).

I'm headed to Chicago with a load of auto parts. Here's my CDL, medical card, and logs.

Give destination and cargo, then present your CDL, medical card, and logbook.

Come back at your appointment time.

You are early — return at your scheduled slot.

No overnight parking here.

You can't park overnight at this facility.

I'm checking in for a pickup — my load number is 4471.

Check in at the guard shack and give your load/PO number.

Is there detention pay if I have to wait past my appointment?

Ask whether you'll be paid detention for a long wait.

We'll unload you in about 30 minutes.

The dock crew will unload your trailer soon.

Sign here.

Sign the bill of lading / proof of delivery (BOL/POD).

Two cases came in damaged — I need to note it on the paperwork.

Report damaged freight and write it on the BOL before you sign.

I need to report an accident on I-80 — nobody is hurt.

🔴 In a crash, call 911 first and report the location and whether anyone is injured.

Here's my CDL and insurance information.

Exchange your CDL and insurance info with the other driver.

I'm calling my dispatcher now to report the breakdown.

Take photos, then notify your dispatcher / company.

Can you send a tow to mile marker 82 on I-80 eastbound?

Call for a tow and give your exact location.

Dispatch, I'm running about an hour behind — heavy traffic on I-40.

Give dispatch a route/ETA update.

There's ice on the grade ahead — tell eastbound to slow down.

Warn other drivers of road conditions on the CB.