Sponsors
The bill tightens state control and enforcement over CDL eligibility to strengthen lawful employment and safety, but does so at the risk of job losses for immigrant drivers, added costs to states and businesses, and potential delays or loss of federal highway funding.
State governments (DMVs) regain clearer authority to determine who qualifies for in‑state CDLs by requiring proof of domicile and lawful presence, and have a defined compliance path to retain federal highway funding (suspensions reversible when compliance is certified).
Commercial drivers who can document lawful work authorization and the traveling public may see improved highway safety because CDL issuance is tied to verified lawful employability.
Trucking companies and employers face a new enforcement mechanism (fines) that can deter knowingly hiring noncompliant drivers, strengthening deterrence against illegal employment practices.
Immigrant and noncitizen residents who lack the required proof of lawful presence risk losing access to CDLs, threatening jobs and livelihoods in trucking and related industries.
States that are found noncompliant could lose federal 104(b) highway funds, potentially delaying road projects, increasing local costs, and worsening infrastructure conditions for residents.
Trucking companies will face new fines and compliance costs which may be passed along to consumers as higher shipping and goods prices.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Introduced October 28, 2025 by Jefferson Van Drew · Last progress October 28, 2025
Requires proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or valid work authorization plus documentation of state domicile to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL). States must use the Department of Homeland Security SAVE system to verify noncitizen applicants and deny CDLs if SAVE does not confirm lawful presence. The Department of Transportation may suspend federal highway formula funds to states that issue CDLs in violation of the new rules and must set fines for employers who knowingly hire noncompliant drivers.