Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
FMCSA Tightens Rules for Non-Domiciled CDLs in Wake of Fatal Crashes
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR) to tighten the the rules governing the issuance of commercial learner’s permits (CLPs) and commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to individuals domiciled outside the United States. The rule, which takes effect immediately upon publication in the Federal Register, represents one of the most significant shifts in driver-credentialing policy in recent memory. FMCSA says the move is necessary to “restore int
Brandon Wiseman
DOT Proposes Adding Fentanyl to Drug Testing Panel
In a significant move to address the escalating opioid crisis, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to amend its drug-testing regulations under 49 CFR Part 40. Published in the Federal Register on September 2, 2025, the proposal aims to add fentanyl—a potent synthetic opioid—and its metabolite norfentanyl to the DOT's drug testing panels for both urine and oral fluid specimens. This change comes amid rising overdose deaths linked to fentan
Brandon Wiseman
USDOT threatens to withhold federal funding from California, Washington & New Mexico for ELP enforcement non-compliance
In a bold move underscoring the Trump administration's commitment to enhancing trucking safety and enforcing federal regulations, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has issued a stern warning to three states: California, Washington, and New Mexico. On August 26, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced that these states risk losing millions in federal funding unless they immediately align with English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements for commercial motor vehi
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA Modifies Temporary Waiver for Paper Medical Certificates Amid NRII Transition
According to a notice published August 21, 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has modified its temporary waiver, allowing interstate commercial driver’s license (CDL) and commercial learner’s permit (CLP) holders, as well as motor carriers, to use paper Medical Examiner’s Certificates (MECs) as proof of medical certification for up to 60 days after issuance. This waiver, effective until October 12, 2025, addresses ongoing challenges in the transition to the National Re
Brandon Wiseman
USDOT Announces New Initiatives to Support America’s Truck Drivers in 2025
On June 27, 2025, U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Secretary Sean Duffy unveiled a comprehensive set of initiatives, pilot programs, and regulatory updates aimed at supporting America’s truck drivers. Announced in response to the President’s Executive Order, these measures from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) focus on improving truck parking, providing regulatory relief, enhancing driver flexibility, and modernizing resources. "Truckers keep America running. Whi
Brandon Wiseman
Trump cracks down on English-proficiency among truck drivers in new executive order
On April 28, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order titled “Enforcing Commonsense Rules of the Road for America’s Truck Drivers." For trucking companies, drivers, and safety professionals, the order represents a significant shift in federal policy, particularly in its rigorous enforcement of English proficiency requirements for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. In this article, we summarize the executive order, explore its implications, and provide historical context,
Brandon WisemanNever Miss an Update
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