DOT tightens CDL rules for noncitizen truck drivers
The U.S. Department of Transportation, led by Secretary Sean Duffy, announced stricter rules Friday making it harder for non‑U.S. citizens to obtain commercial driver’s licenses after an audit prompted by a deadly Florida Turnpike crash. The review found improper CDL issuance in six states and DOT warned California it has 30 days to comply or risk losing about $160 million in federal funding; the Florida crash driver, identified as Harjinder Singh, faces vehicular homicide and immigration charges.
Transportation
Public Safety
Immigration
📰 Sources (1)
What to know about the stricter rules coming to noncitizen truck drivers after fatal Florida crash
New information:
- DOT announced the tighter CDL rules on September 26, 2025 following a nationwide audit.
- Audit found improper CDL issuance in California, Colorado, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas and Washington; California review flagged 1 in 4 of 145 noncitizen CDLs examined as improperly issued.
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy threatened to withhold roughly $160 million in federal funding from California if it does not audit and comply within 30 days.
- The policy push was triggered by a Florida Turnpike crash involving trucker Harjinder Singh; a minivan driver and two passengers were killed. Singh has been charged with three counts of vehicular homicide and immigration violations.