The domestic shipping industry could soon feel the effect as the FMCSA issues a final CDL Rule. On Wednesday, February 11, the DOT (Department of Transportation) finalized a rule governing the issuance of CDLs (Commercial Driver’s Licenses). The final policy published by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) in the Federal Register will begin mid-March. Under the new rule, non-US-domiciled drivers will face stricter requirements to obtain CDLs. Eligibility will now be limited to employment-based visas, including H-2A, H-2B, and E-2. Licensing agencies will also have stricter eligibility requirements. Applicants must present an unexpired passport and an approved Form I-40. State driver’s license agencies will also not allow EAD’s (Employment Authorization Documents) as proof of eligibility.
Why is the FMCSA Issuing A Rule For Issuing Nondomiciled CDLs?
A final CDL rule by the FSCSA is part of the Trump Administration’s broader goal of promoting safety in trucking. Previous standards allowed the issuing of nondomiciled CDL’s without the same level of immigration verification and background checks. EADs were also accepted from truckers who lacked proper cross-verification against federal databases. The FMCSA believed this allowed improper vetting of drivers operating heavy commercial vehicles. As a result, the FMCSA noted that there were 17 crashes and 30 deaths from nondomiciled drivers in 2025. The rule also aims to strengthen immigration status verification and reduce the risk of expired work authorizations and fraud. The FMCSA aims to ensure consistent baseline standards for all commercial drivers.
What Can Domestic Shipping Expect As FMCSA Issues A Final CDL Rule?
Given the number of nondomiciled drivers, the new rule could significantly impact domestic shipping. Tens of thousands of drivers could exit the freight market due to non-compliance with standards. This is especially true in areas with a high concentration of non-English speaking drivers. In turn, limited drivers may lead to higher domestic transport costs due to reduced freight capacity. A shorter labor pool could also cause delays, impacting other parts of the supply chain. It can also affect international shipping supply chains, as importers often use trucking for final-destination transport. Despite the concerns, the FMCSA believes the new rule will be essential to safety and for preventing fatal accidents.
Despite the potential impact of a CDL rule on shipping, it should not prevent cargo movement. However, the shipper should take the proper steps to mitigate potential disruptions. In addition to staying current with laws and regulations, the shipper can do this by contacting a freight broker. Brokers are intermediaries between shippers and carriers who coordinate domestic transport for your cargo. A1 Freight Solutions has freight brokers connected to a network of carriers ready to transport your goods domestically. Our brokers also provide services such as coordinating cargo movement, providing documentation, finding rates, and more. Speak with our brokers at info@a1fsinc.com or 786-756-8795 to begin moving your shipment anywhere in the US.