Idaho Driver Faces 10 Years for Attempted CDL Test Bribery

Key Details Ryan Basnaw, 29, from Meridian, Idaho, pleaded guilty to federal program bribery after attempting to pay a CDL skills examiner $500 for a passing test score. On July 2, 2025, Basnaw offered the bribe before even taking the exam, seeking to remove three restrictions from his license without completing the required skills test. Why It Matters This case highlights serious vulnerabilities in CDL testing integrity. The Idaho Transportation Department contracts third-party testers and receives federal funding for its CDL program, making bribery attempts a federal crime. Such schemes undermine safety standards that protect all road users. Potential Consequences Basnaw faces sentencing on June 16, 2026, with potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison, mandatory three years minimum supervised release, and fines reaching $250,000. The FBI and Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General investigated the case, signaling federal commitment to prosecuting CDL corruption. The Takeaway Drivers tempted to cut corners through illegal means should understand the severe consequences. Federal authorities actively investigate and prosecute bribery attempts, and convictions carry life-altering penalties far exceeding any shortcut benefits.