California has revoked 17,000 commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) issued to non-domiciled immigrants following a federal audit by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The audit revealed that many license holders failed to meet English proficiency and record verification requirements, raising serious safety concerns for interstate trucking operations.

The action comes after U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy issued a stern warning: if California failed to cancel all improperly issued licenses, the state could lose $160 million in federal highway funds. The DMV confirmed the revocations on November 13, 2025, ensuring compliance with federal standards and prioritizing public safety.

Secretary Duffy emphasized that all states must adopt strict enforcement measures to prevent unqualified individuals from operating commercial vehicles. “California must revoke EVERY illegally issued CDL, or I will pull $160 MILLION in federal funds,” Duffy stated, highlighting the federal government’s commitment to protecting American roads.

Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration attributed the revocations to inconsistencies in state law but acknowledged the need to meet federal safety requirements. Industry groups, including the American Trucking Associations, applauded the move and called for stricter nationwide standards to ensure that only qualified, English-proficient drivers operate commercial vehicles.

The revocations reinforce the Trump Administration’s broader push for accountability and safety in the nation’s transportation network, demonstrating that federal oversight will not hesitate to enforce compliance when public safety is at stake.