Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently revealed a troubling statistic regarding North Carolina’s commercial driver’s licensing practices. On January 8, 2026, he announced that 54% of non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) issued to foreign nationals in the state were deemed illegal. This alarming figure has emerged as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) conducts audits into the state’s licensing system.
Duffy’s statement highlights a critical failure on the part of North Carolina. He characterized the situation as not only “shameful” but also “dangerous.” Such strong language underscores the potential risks these illegally issued licenses pose to public safety. The Transportation Secretary is now calling for immediate action from state authorities to rectify the situation. If North Carolina fails to revoke these licenses, it faces the threat of losing $50 million in federal funding.
The FMCSA has taken the necessary steps to address the issue, sending a formal notification to North Carolina’s Governor and the Commissioner of Public Safety. This letter pointed out that some non-domiciled CDLs were issued to drivers whose eligibility was questionable, including those who had expired legal status in the country. The severity of North Carolina’s noncompliance with federal regulations has prompted FMCSA’s Derek Barrs to describe it as “egregious,” showcasing the depths of the licensing failures.
To retain federal funding, the state must quickly halt the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs and review all licenses that are currently noncompliant. The process will require a thorough audit to uncover why these mistakes occurred, examining everything from procedural failings to inadequate training.
Duffy’s emphasis on the importance of vehicle safety comes following a tragic accident involving a driver with a CDL issued under similar circumstances in California. That incident resulted in multiple fatalities and has clearly influenced the urgency of Duffy’s agenda. California has already taken steps back, revoking 17,000 noncompliant CDLs in response.
Communication from the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles reflects a commitment to addressing these issues. They claim to be working closely with federal partners to resolve the matters affecting licensing across several states. This suggests that the state is aware of the seriousness of the situation and is maintaining transparency in its dealings.
This ongoing saga raises broader questions about cross-state regulatory compliance and the measures necessary to ensure public safety on the roads. As the audits continue, it is essential for North Carolina to act decisively to overhaul its licensing system. The stakes are clear: the lives of residents and the integrity of the transportation infrastructure hang in the balance.
"*" indicates required fields
