Tennessee Requires 8,800 CDL Holders to Confirm Citizenship or Permanent Residency

The state of Tennessee has begun verifying so-called legacy records of commercial driver's licenses (CDL). Approximately 8,800 drivers have received official notifications requiring them to personally confirm U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status (Lawful Permanent Resident), as reported by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS). Otherwise, after April 6, 2026, their CDL will be downgraded to a regular driver's license.

These measures are part of a broader federal campaign to align the CDL system with current security and immigration law requirements, as also noted by industry media, including FreightWaves.

According to an official TDOSHS statement, the verification is conducted under the following conditions:

• it only affects drivers who have received an official notification letter;
• it concerns licenses issued many years ago when proof of citizenship or permanent residency was not required;
• data updates must be conducted in person at a Driver Services Center;
• photocopies of documents are not accepted — originals are required.

The press release emphasizes that these actions are necessary to comply with state law requirements, federal regulations, and a presidential executive order.

Accepted Documents

The official CDL Administrative Account Review page of TDOSHS lists the following accepted documents.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

• valid U.S. passport;
• certified birth certificate;
• Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 / N-570);
• Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 / N-561).

Proof of Permanent Residency

• valid Green Card issued by USCIS.

A complete and up-to-date list of documents is available on the official TDOSHS page.

What Happens If You Do Nothing

• If a driver has received a notification but does not appear and provide documents, their CDL will be downgraded to a regular non-commercial license, as stated in TDOSHS clarifications.
• Commercial driving privileges can only be restored after a personal visit and submission of the required documents.