Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
States Sue FMCSA Over CDLIS Data Demand
Twenty-two states and D.C. have sued FMCSA over a demand for 17 million CDLIS driver records, threatening to shut down CDL issuance nationwide. Here's what the lawsuit means for your fleet and what to watch next.
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA Proposes to Codify English Language Proficiency as an Out-of-Service Violation
FMCSA has proposed a rule that would formally codify English Language Proficiency (ELP) as an out-of-service violation under 49 CFR 391.11(b)(2). Here's what the NPRM means for your fleet and what you need to be doing right now.
Brandon Wiseman
Freedom Haulers: What Fleet Owners & Safety Directors Need to Know About the New Veteran CDL Initiative
The Trump Administration's Freedom Haulers campaign expands veteran CDL fast-track programs, adds seven states to the Even Exchange Program, and doubles the Military Skills Test Waiver window to two years. Here's what fleet owners and compliance teams need to know.
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA Finalizes More Deregulatory Rules
FMCSA has finalized three new deregulatory rules effective July 22, 2026, removing the CDL self-reporting requirement, the in-cab ELD manual requirement, and revising the roadside inspection report return process. Here is what fleets need to know and do.
Brandon Wiseman
Iowa English Proficiency Law Progresses Through State Legislature: What SF 2426 Means for Carriers
Iowa Senate File 2426 would establish one of the nation's first comprehensive state-level English proficiency requirements for CDL applicants, with carrier penalties up to $10,000 per violation. Here's what Iowa carriers need to know now.
Brandon Wiseman
Indiana Revokes Nearly 1,800 Non-Domiciled CDLs Under New State Law
Indiana revoked 1,790 non-domiciled CDLs under new state law, establishing precedent for nationwide enforcement with $50,000 employer penalties and felony charges.
Brandon Wiseman
The Open Door Policy That Broke American Trucking
Indiana’s revocation of nearly 2,000 non-domiciled CDLs has sparked national attention, but focusing only on immigration misses the deeper issue. This article argues that the real problem is a decades-long erosion of entry standards across the trucking industry, driven by deregulation, self-certification, and a misplaced “driver shortage” narrative. From carrier authority and broker licensing to ELDT, ELDs, and medical certification, the system increasingly relies on trust where verification is needed. The result is an industry flooded with underqualified participants and a compliance framework struggling to keep up.
Rob Carpenter
Dalilah's Law Moves Through Committee With Key Revisions on Foreign Dispatch and CDL Eligibility
Delilah's Law has advanced through committee with key revisions — including sharper language on foreign dispatch services. Here's what the amended bill means for fleet compliance programs right now.
Brandon WisemanNever Miss an Update
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