Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act Aims to Simplify Rules

Lawmakers Propose Changes to Seasonal Agriculture CDL

A new bill in Congress could change how farm workers get seasonal truck licenses. On July 22, 2025, Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS) introduced the Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act. The bill has 16 co-sponsors. Many agricultural truck driver groups support it.

This bill focuses on restricted CDLs used in farm work. It also updates rules about which farm vehicles need a CDL.

Seasonal Agriculture CDL Renewals Could Go Online

The bill would give the U.S. Department of Transportation one year to create new rules. These rules would let states offer online renewals and applications for the Seasonal Agriculture CDL.

Today, many states only use in-person systems. Supporters say online options would save time. They believe it would help during planting and harvest seasons.

Seasonal CDL Rules May Change for Farm Use

The bill also clears up rules about farm vehicles. It says that implements of husbandry—like tractors or other farm tools—should not be counted as commercial motor vehicles.

This change could help drivers. It means common farm machines would not count against weight limits. That may reduce how many of drivers need a full CDL.

Agriculture Groups Support Seasonal CDL Reform

Groups in trucking and farming back the bill. These include:

• Agriculture Transportation Coalition
• National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
• U.S. Canola Association
• American Feed Industry Association

They say fewer delays in licensing will help move goods faster. Peter Friedmann, director of the Ag Transportation Coalition, said slow transportation can hurt farm exports. He said the supply chain begins at the farm and depends on trucks.

Seasonal Agriculture Bill Mentions Driver Supply

Rep. Mann also spoke about the number of drivers in rural areas. He shared reports from the ATA saying that the U.S. may be short by 115,000 truck drivers by the end of 2025.
Not everyone agrees with these reports. Many in the trucking industry believe that the issue is related to truck driver retention as opposed to an actual truck driver shortage. The bill does not appear to take a side. Rather, it aims to make the license process smoother for farm drivers.

Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Still in Review

As of early August 2025, the bill is still in the early stages. It has gone to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. A vote has not yet been set.

Supporters hope for quick action. They want changes in place before the next farming season. More lawmakers have signed on since it was first introduced.

What Seasonal Agriculture CDL Changes Could Mean

If the bill becomes law, here’s what may happen:

• States could offer online renewals for farm CDLs
• Fewer farm vehicles would need full CDLs
• Seasonal drivers could get on the road faster

The Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act aims to make things easier for farm drivers. It could reduce delays and help keep the agriculture supply chain moving.