Texas CDL Suspension That Will Impact Certain Non-Citizens

Texas CDL Suspension to Certain Non-Citizens Under New FMCSA Rule

The Texas CDL suspension is now in effect after a new FMCSA emergency rule. The state has stopped issuing, renewing, and reissuing some commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and commercial learner’s permits (CLPs) to non-citizens who no longer qualify under federal law. Some of the groups affected are DACA holders, refugees, and asylees.

Texas officials say the move follows new federal rules meant to improve safety and ensure proper license verification.

Texas CDL Suspension Follows FMCSA Rule

On September 29, 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced an emergency rule. It limits which non-citizens can get a CDL or CLP in the United States.

In response, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) stopped CDL services for drivers in certain immigration categories. The goal is to make sure only drivers with confirmed lawful status can hold a valid license.

Who Is Affected by the Texas CDL Suspension

The Texas CDL suspension affects DACA recipients, refugees, asylees, and non-domiciled individuals whose lawful presence cannot be verified. Drivers in these groups can’t get a new CDL or CLP. They also can’t renew or replace an existing one.

Applicants with scheduled written or skills tests will have their appointments put on hold. They must wait for new instructions from FMCSA or Texas DPS.

State officials said Texas has never issued CDLs to asylum seekers without confirmed lawful presence. This suspension now puts that policy into full effect statewide.

Why the Texas CDL Suspension Was Issued

Federal officials say the rule was needed to prevent states from giving CDLs to people with unclear or expired immigration status. They want stronger checks to make sure all CDL holders meet federal requirements.

The Texas CDL suspension is meant to bring the state into full compliance with these standards and improve road safety.

Impact on Drivers and the Trucking Industry

The change could affect many non-citizens who work in trucking. Some CDL schools have already paused training programs for DACA recipients, refugees, and asylees.

Industry groups warn that the Texas CDL suspension may lead to new driver shortage concerns. Fewer eligible drivers could mean tighter capacity and higher operating costs for carriers.

Others say the move improves consistency and helps prevent licensing mistakes that could harm public safety.

Texas CDL Suspension and English Rules

Along with the Texas CDL suspension, Texas is now enforcing stronger English language rules. Governor Greg Abbott directed the DPS to check that all commercial drivers can read and understand road signs in English.

Officials say this is part of a broader plan to improve safety and ensure drivers meet federal standards.

What Happens Next

The Texas CDL suspension will stay in place until federal and state agencies issue new guidance. So far, no date has been given for when services might resume for affected groups.

Both FMCSA and Texas DPS are reviewing how the rule will be applied long-term. Updates will be posted on official channels as more details become available.

Summary

The Texas CDL suspension began after a new FMCSA emergency rule took effect. It stops CDL and CLP services for DACA recipients, refugees, asylees, and some non-domiciled applicants.

Officials say the change improves safety and ensures compliance with federal law. The trucking industry is watching closely as Texas and the FMCSA decide the next steps.