New CDL Restrictions: What They Mean for Your Freight — and How Euro-American Is Responding
The U.S. trucking sector is undergoing a major regulatory shift that is expected to influence freight capacity nationwide. Following a federal review highlighting widespread inconsistencies in how states issued non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs), the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has enacted immediate restrictions tightening eligibility requirements.
Under these new rules, non-U.S. citizens can only obtain a non-domiciled CDL if they hold an approved employment-based visa and pass mandatory immigration verification through the federal SAVE program. These measures were implemented after auditors found multiple states issuing CDLs to individuals who did not meet federal standards—or whose lawful presence in the country had expired.
California’s audit was especially significant: more than a quarter of reviewed non-domiciled CDLs were determined to be improperly issued. The state now faces a 30-day deadline to correct the issue or risk losing access to federal highway funds.
How These Changes May Affect Your Supply Chain
Although the full impact will take shape over the coming months as existing licenses expire, early market signals already suggest challenges ahead.
Reduced Driver Pool
Stricter eligibility requirements will shrink the number of qualified drivers, especially among small and independent carriers that rely on non-domiciled CDL holders. Some lanes may see tighter availability or longer booking windows.
Potential Rate Increases
A smaller driver workforce, combined with steady freight demand, typically results in upward pressure on spot rates. Volatility may increase as capacity fluctuates across regions.
Carrier Stability Concerns
Some carriers may unexpectedly lose operating capability if drivers become ineligible for renewal. This could lead to canceled loads, last-minute coverage problems, or sudden network gaps.
Higher Compliance Expectations
Shippers, brokers, and logistics providers will need to verify carrier and driver documentation more thoroughly. The new rules make year-round compliance monitoring essential.
How Euro-American Worldwide Logistics Is Protecting Your Freight
At Euro-American, we’ve taken a proactive approach to ensure our clients remain shielded from service disruptions. As both an asset-based transportation provider and a trusted 3PL partner, we’re strengthening every part of our trucking oversight and compliance program.
- Comprehensive Carrier Network Review: We are conducting detailed audits of every carrier we utilize, prioritizing fleets with strong compliance history and long-term driver eligibility.
- Strengthened Driver Vetting & Documentation Control: Our internal compliance team has expanded its verification protocols to align with the updated FMCSA requirements. This ensures that every driver handling your cargo is fully credentialed and safe to operate.
- Diversified Capacity Solutions: To safeguard reliability, we are deepening partnerships with vetted mid-sized fleets, leveraging our asset-based trucks, and exploring dedicated capacity options for high-demand clients.
- Real-Time Market and Policy Monitoring: Euro-American continually tracks regulatory developments impacting freight transportation nationwide. Our clients receive timely updates, risk assessments, and capacity planning guidance.
Planning for the Months Ahead
Given the potential for continued tightening across the trucking industry, we recommend reviewing your expected shipping volumes for the next several quarters. For time-sensitive, high-volume, or recurring shipments, advance planning will help ensure access to stable capacity and protect against cost spikes.
Euro-American does not rely on one-size-fits-all solutions. We partner closely with each customer to develop tailored strategies that maintain continuity, minimize risk, and ensure freight moves safely—even in a shifting regulatory environment.
We’re Here to Support You
As CDL eligibility rules evolve, Euro-American Worldwide Logistics remains committed to safeguarding your freight and helping you stay ahead of supply chain challenges.
If you’d like to discuss capacity planning, compliance questions, or strategies to mitigate risk, our team is ready to assist. Contact us today.
Your freight stays in trusted hands — every mile, every shipment.
