A recent audit by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) revealed serious violations in the issuance process of non-domiciled CDLs in the state of North Carolina. According to the official audit results, more than half of such licenses were issued in violation of federal requirements, jeopardizing road safety and risking the loss of federal funding.
The audit conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) showed that about 54% of the reviewed non-domiciled CDLs in North Carolina were issued in violation of federal regulations.
The identified issues include cases where licenses were issued to drivers who:
- did not have valid proof of lawful presence in the U.S.;
- received a CDL for a period longer than their immigration status allowed;
- initially did not meet federal requirements for obtaining a CDL.
The official USDOT press release emphasizes that the violations are systemic and require immediate corrective actions.
USDOT has officially notified North Carolina authorities of the potential suspension of approximately $50 million in federal funding intended for the state's road infrastructure and transportation programs.
To avoid sanctions, the state is required to:
- Temporarily halt the issuance of new non-domiciled CDLs.
- Conduct a full review of previously issued licenses.
- Revoke CDLs issued with violations.
- Update DMV procedures, staff training, and the internal quality control system.
Non-domiciled CDL is a commercial driver's license issued to a person who is not a permanent resident of the state or country but is authorized to work as a commercial transport driver in the U.S.
Federal regulations require strict verification of:
- immigration status;
- duration of lawful presence in the country;
- compliance with all FMCSA safety requirements.
North Carolina is not the only state under federal scrutiny. Previous similar audits revealed serious violations in:
- California;
- New York;
- Minnesota;
- Pennsylvania.
These audits are part of a nationwide campaign by USDOT and FMCSA aimed at tightening control over the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs.
Transport companies are advised to:
- verify the documents of drivers with non-domiciled CDLs;
- keep up with updates from DMV and FMCSA;
- be prepared for additional audits and possible rule changes.
Drivers need to ensure that:
- their immigration status fully complies with FMCSA requirements;
- the validity period of their CDL does not exceed their lawful presence in the U.S.
Non-compliance with these requirements may lead to license revocation and loss of work eligibility.