19 Non-Domiciled CDL Drivers Sue FMCSA and Florida Over Licensing Restrictions

Key Details Nineteen non-domiciled CDL holders filed a federal lawsuit on April 15, 2026, challenging FMCSA and Florida licensing agencies over restrictions they say violate their constitutional rights. The suit targets the FMCSA's interim final rule on non-domiciled CDL issuance, which severely limits state driver licensing agencies' authority to issue permits to foreign nationals. Why It Matters The plaintiffs argue FMCSA bypassed proper procedures by issuing the rule without a notice and comment period. The agency failed to provide evidence that existing non-domiciled CDL programs posed safety risks, according to the lawsuit, making the restrictions arbitrary and unlawful. The Bigger Picture FMCSA published a final rule on February 13, 2026, that essentially reaffirmed the earlier interim rule despite a pending stay from the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. The lawsuit alleges the agency ignored deficiencies identified by the court, including failure to demonstrate safety concerns and failure to consult with states. Florida's Role Florida's Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles agency imposed an indefinite pause on non-domiciled CDL issuance and renewal following an FMCSA corrective action plan. The suit argues this pause exceeds FMCSA's statutory authority and disproportionately harms immigrants and individuals from specific national origins.