Ohio BMV Training Gap Leaves Mexican Driver Without Valid CDL

Key Details Julio Soto, a CDL holder with a temporary green card (Form I-551), says Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles employees denied his CDL renewal over 15 times before it expired. He claims staff incorrectly told him he needed a specific 10-year green card, despite federal regulations accepting his temporary card as valid proof of permanent residence. Why It Matters Soto's expired CDL now puts his job at risk - his trucking company gave him one week to resolve the issue or face termination. He requested a formal hearing with Ohio DPS but couldn't get one scheduled until after his CDL already expired, leaving him in legal limbo. The Problem Soto says BMV employees misinterpreted immigration documents and became aggressive when questioned about their requirements. He's calling for better staff training on FMCSA regulations regarding valid immigration documents for CDL applications. Official Response Ohio BMV stated they follow federal regulations requiring "valid unexpired permanent resident card" documentation. However, when informed Soto had presented an unexpired I-551, the BMV did not respond further. Soto now awaits a written decision within 30 days, highlighting the urgent need for clearer employee training on immigration document requirements.