DACA Recipient Seeks Commercial Driver License Exemption for Work
Published Date: 6/2/2026
Notice
Summary
Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis wants DACA recipients with work permits to get Class B passenger Commercial Driver's Licenses just like other workers. The government is asking the public to share their thoughts by July 2, 2026, before deciding. If approved, this could open new job opportunities for many without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
DACA Holders Ineligible for Non‑Domiciled CDLs
If you are a DACA recipient, current federal rules (effective March 16, 2026) prevent you from obtaining a non-domiciled commercial learner's permit or Commercial Driver's License unless you provide "evidence of lawful immigration status" under 49 CFR 383.5. That regulation requires a Form I-94/94A with specific H-2A, H-2B, or E-2 classifications, so DACA recipients who do not have that form are ineligible for non-domiciled CLP/CDLs.
Request to Let DACA Holders Get Class B CDLs
If you are a DACA recipient with a valid Employment Authorization Document, Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis has applied for an exemption that would allow you to obtain and hold a Class B passenger-vehicle CDL under the same conditions as other work-authorized individuals. FMCSA is requesting public comment (comments due July 2, 2026) on the immediate, temporary exemption and will review the application, safety analyses, and comments before deciding whether to grant or deny it.
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