USPS Requires Background Screening for All Non-Domiciled CDL Drivers by May 2026

Key Details Starting May 1, 2026, the U.S. Postal Service will prohibit unvetted non-domiciled CDL drivers from hauling mail. According to an April 16 letter from USPS Vice President of Transportation Strategy Peter Routsolias, all drivers must complete screening and clearance requirements through the U.S. Postal Inspection Service before performing postal work. Why It Matters USPS moves 55,000 truckloads daily, covering nearly 2 billion miles annually. This policy change directly impacts contract trucking providers who rely on non-domiciled CDL operators. Contractors must ensure compliance or risk losing postal service contracts. Background The mandate aligns with the U.S. Department of Transportation's stricter policies on non-domiciled CDLs. USPS officials emphasized that tightening vetting requirements improves transportation safety, accountability, and driver oversight across their massive logistics network. The agency views this as essential to maintaining a culture of safety among both employee and contract drivers. What You Need to Know If you're a non-domiciled CDL driver hauling mail through contracted carriers, verify your background screening status now. Discuss requirements with your employer to ensure you meet all USPS clearance standards before the May 1, 2026 deadline.