FMCSA Approves Non-Domiciled CDL Option for Pacific Island Citizens

Key Details The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) granted a five-year exemption on May 14 allowing state driver licensing agencies to issue non-domiciled commercial driver's licenses and commercial learner's permits to citizens of Freely Associated States (FAS). Eligible applicants must be FAS residents with valid passports and Form I-94 or I-94A documentation. Who Qualifies The exemption applies to citizens from the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. These individuals hold unique legal status under the Compacts of Free Association, permitting them to work and reside in the U.S. without visas. What Was Denied The FMCSA partially denied Hawaii's request to allow FAS citizens to obtain standard CDLs instead of non-domiciled licenses. The agency deemed non-domiciled credentials sufficient to meet safety standards. This decision supersedes a previous 2024 Oregon exemption that permitted standard CDLs for FAS citizens. Why It Matters This ruling expands opportunities for qualified international drivers while maintaining regulatory consistency across all states. The exemption recognizes FAS citizens' lawful status and their role supporting U.S. security interests in the Pacific region.