Non-Domiciled CDL: Oklahoma Law to Focus on Identity

Oklahoma Advances Bill Targeting Non-Domiciled CDL Drivers

A new bill passed by the Oklahoma Legislature aims to tighten rules for commercial drivers, especially those with a non-domiciled CDL. The legislation, called the Oklahoma Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025, requires drivers to prove legal work status and demonstrate English proficiency. The bill has passed both the Senate and House but is still awaiting the governor’s signature. If signed, it will become law.

What Is a Non-Domiciled CDL?

A non-domiciled CDL is a commercial driver’s license issued to someone who is legally allowed to operate in the United States but is not a permanent resident of the state—or sometimes not even a permanent resident of the country. These licenses are commonly issued to foreign drivers with valid work visas who meet federal and state CDL requirements.

These drivers must still pass skills and knowledge tests like any other CDL holder. However, under the proposed Oklahoma law, they would also need to show additional documentation and meet stricter state-level requirements.

Stricter Requirements for Non-Domiciled CDL Holders

Senate Bill 20 would require drivers with a non-domiciled CDL to carry a valid work visa and provide proof of citizenship. Acceptable documents would include a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a valid passport. The expiration date of the driver’s CDL would be tied to the expiration of their visa.

Drivers who fail to meet these requirements would be barred from operating a commercial motor vehicle in Oklahoma. If found in violation, they could be fined up to $1,000 and face up to 90 days in jail. Trucking companies employing undocumented or unqualified non-domiciled CDL drivers would face a $3,000 fine per violation. Fines collected would support weigh station upgrades and trauma care funding.

English Proficiency Rule for Non-Domiciled CDL Drivers

The bill also requires all CDL drivers—including those with a non-domiciled CDL—to demonstrate English language proficiency. Drivers must be able to:

• Speak with the public,
• Read and understand English road signs,
• Respond to law enforcement,
• Fill out reports and documents in English.

A driver who cannot meet these requirements would be prohibited from operating in the state. They would face a $1,000 fine, and carriers allowing such violations would face $3,000 penalties.

Cargo May Be Delayed Due to Non-Domiciled CDL Violations

If a driver is pulled from service for violating any part of the proposed law, the carrier would be notified. If a compliant replacement driver is not provided within 12 hours, the cargo owner would be contacted to move the load. The state would not be held liable for costs or damages resulting from cargo transfers.

Legislative Support and Political Context

The bill passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives with a 71-13 vote. Representative Jonathan Wilk (R-Goldsby), who authored the bill, said the legislation is meant to close gaps that allow foreign drivers to operate without proper documentation or communication skills.

“This legislation puts an end to the days of foreign drivers slipping through the cracks and putting our citizens at risk,” said Wilk. “President Trump showed us the importance of securing our borders and standing up for American workers. SB 20 brings that same America First mindset to Oklahoma roads.”

The bill aligns with a federal executive order signed earlier this year, which grants states more authority to enforce immigration and transportation rules.

Speaker of the House Kyle Hilbert (R-Bristow) also praised the bill’s passage:

“President Trump has led the way and made it clear: we’re done with the chaos and we’re standing up for legal, law-abiding, hardworking Americans. This bill reinforces the rule of law and strengthens public safety.”

What’s Next for the Non-Domiciled CDL Law

Though passed by both chambers, SB 20 has not yet been signed by Governor Kevin Stitt. The bill now heads to his desk. If signed, it will immediately become law due to its emergency clause. Supporters expect the governor to approve the measure soon.

Until then, the proposed requirements are not yet being enforced. However, if signed into law, trucking companies and drivers with non-domiciled CDLs will need to prepare quickly to meet the new standards.