Indiana Continues to close Gaps around Non-Domiciled CDL's

A new Indiana law is drawing attention to the application and enforcement of commercial driver licensing standards. Effective April 1, the state canceled nearly 1,800 non-domiciled CDLs under House Enrolled Act 1200, which strengthens eligibility requirements and imposes significant penalties on non-compliant drivers, employers, and training providers.

The law clarifies eligibility by requiring valid nonimmigrant work authorization for CDL holders and English proficiency for testing. It introduces enforcement measures, including felony charges for fraudulent licensing and civil penalties up to $50,000 for companies and training providers that violate federal or state requirements. The law also holds training operations accountable, reinforcing providers as a key control point in the CDL process.

These changes have implications beyond Indiana.

Commercial driver training follows national Entry-Level Driver Training standards, administered by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. These standards set minimum requirements for training quality and safety, but their effectiveness relies on consistent enforcement and verification. Without enforcement, compliance is inconsistent, gaps appear, and the system’s credibility suffers.

Indiana’s approach reflects a broader move toward stricter eligibility verification and greater accountability in the CDL system. However, increasing variation in state actions creates challenges for training providers and employers working across jurisdictions, highlighting the need for greater alignment.

CVTA members deliver training daily to ensure drivers enter the workforce prepared, compliant, and safe. This work depends on uniform standards and decisive action against non-compliance.

Indiana’s law reinforces that standards alone are not enough. Their value comes from consistent enforcement, which protects system integrity and supports safe, qualified workforce entry.