The ongoing discussion about non-citizen drivers in the trucking industry has surfaced again as questions loom over their numbers, safety, and impact on the market amidst recent regulatory changes. President Donald Trump’s executive order intends to review the issuance of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to non-domiciled individuals, raising concerns about potential ramifications for these drivers.
A recent investigation revealed that while states have issued tens of thousands of non-domiciled CDLs over the past decade, many of these states themselves are unaware of the exact figures. For instance, California does not maintain specific records on non-domiciled drivers, and discrepancies were noted in earlier Texas reports regarding their numbers. This lack of clarity has fueled debates among trucking organizations, with the American Trucking Associations disputing claims made by activist groups suggesting that a surge of foreign truck drivers is undermining wages and safety.
During an event in Connecticut, insight was gained from a non-citizen driver from Afghanistan. Despite facing challenges such as limited English proficiency and having been placed out of service for vehicle maintenance issues, he expressed his determination to succeed and improve his language skills. He has lived in the U.S. since 2021 as part of Operation Allies Welcome, a program assisting Afghans who aided U.S. efforts during the two-decade conflict in Afghanistan.
His story illustrates the struggles and aspirations of many like him—seeking to build a life in America while dealing with the complexities of the trucking industry. Despite the potential hurdles presented by the recent language proficiency regulations, he remains hopeful, stating the importance of learning to read English as a path to better opportunities.
This narrative highlights the personal journeys behind the numbers and regulations in the trucking industry. It emphasizes the resilience of individuals striving for better lives and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the impact of non-citizen drivers on American roads. The hope is that, as the industry evolves, it will continue to provide a platform for people to grow and thrive, underscoring the value of hard work and the pursuit of dreams in a new land.