The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has lifted a restriction on commercial drivers licenses (CDLs) for immigrants with temporary agricultural work visas, specifically those holding H-2A visas. This decision comes after a halt in September that affected many immigrants, including refugees and DACA recipients. The change will allow eligible H-2A visa holders to obtain or renew their CDLs in Texas, following new federal guidelines from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Federal Guidelines and State Compliance
The FMCSA’s guidelines, published in March, permit H-2A workers to hold CDLs, alongside H-2B and E-2 visa holders, who are temporary non-agricultural workers and treaty investors, respectively. However, Texas has currently been approved to issue CDLs only to H-2A visa holders. The eligibility for H-2B and E-2 visa holders will be announced later, according to DPS.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the importance of these limitations to prevent “dangerous foreign drivers” from obtaining licenses, citing previous abuses in the CDL system. This reinstatement aligns Texas with federal standards, ensuring that only qualified individuals receive commercial driving privileges.
English-Only Testing Requirements
In addition to lifting the CDL ban, DPS has announced that CDL knowledge tests will now be conducted exclusively in English, removing the Spanish language option. The hands-on skills test has always been conducted in English, requiring applicants to understand and respond to verbal commands in English. Governor Greg Abbott directed DPS to enforce these English requirements strictly, aligning with FMCSA’s revised guidelines from May 2025.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has also initiated investigations into trucking schools allegedly violating English language requirements during CDL testing. These measures aim to ensure that all commercial drivers can effectively communicate in English, which is deemed essential for road safety.
Additional Measures and Reactions
In November, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles introduced photo identification requirements for vehicle registrations and renewals, aimed at preventing illegal immigrants from legally owning vehicles. While some auto industry representatives and county officials have expressed concerns over these changes, citing potential safety and economic impacts, the state maintains these measures are necessary for compliance and safety.
Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
