Texas Opens Non-Domiciled CDL Program for H-2A Agricultural Workers

Key Details Texas will resume issuing non-domiciled commercial driver licenses (CDL) and commercial learner permits (CLP) to temporary agricultural workers effective June 1, 2026. The Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) received Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) approval to issue credentials to H-2A visa holders. All non-domiciled licenses will be valid for one year or less. Why It Matters This reopens pathways for agricultural workers to obtain CDLs in Texas without establishing state domicile. Under updated federal guidelines from March 2026, three visa categories qualify for non-domiciled credentials: H-2A (temporary agricultural), H-2B (non-agricultural), and E-2 (treaty investors). Currently, TXDPS is authorized only for H-2A applicants. What You Need to Know H-2A applicants must complete all transactions in person at a TXDPS Driver License Office. Required documents include valid visa status documentation and identification. Importantly, workers previously authorized under EAD status - including DACA, TPS, and asylum seekers - can no longer renew expired CDLs under the new rules. Additional Changes Texas simultaneously announced that CDL knowledge tests will now be offered in English only, discontinuing Spanish language exams. This marks a significant shift in testing accessibility for non-English speaking applicants.