FMCSA just dropped an interim final rule that took effect Sept 29, 2025. No more CDLs for asylum seekers, refugees, TPS, or DACA drivers, even if they’ve got work permits. The only categories technically left are H-2A, H-2B, and E-2 visas — but Trump already paused those visas for trucking, so in reality it’s now green card holders and citizens only.
Here’s the part that’s going to sting: FMCSA found states like California and Washington handing out non-domiciled CDLs good for 2–4 years (way past what the law allows). Those are going to get targeted and downgraded right away. For everyone else, licenses will die off at renewal — FMCSA says about 200,000 of these CDLs are out there, and 50–70k will come up for renewal by year-end.
What does that mean? Tens of thousands of drivers are going to be forced out over the next 6–12 months, with no replacements coming in. That’s going to cut capacity and push rates up, especially in markets that leaned on immigrant drivers (CA ports, Midwest flatbed, produce lanes). By mid 2026, we could be looking at a serious crunch like 2018 or even 2021.
Capacity crunch incoming
Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by kay_ray, Sep 26, 2025 at 7:03 PM.
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Perfect timing to get my truck back on the road
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Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds
Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.
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