New federal identification requirements for CDL

Effective Dec. 6, 2016, Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles will require proof of United States Citizenship, lawful permanent residence or temporary legal presence, along with proof of Connecticut residency for holders of commercial driver licenses and permits. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is mandating this requirement.

This does not apply to current U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents who already satisfied this paperwork requirement when obtaining a verified driver’s license that shows both a gold star and their CDL designation on it.

This does apply to:

• New applicants for a commercial driver’s learner permit (CLP).
• Existing commercial driver license (CDL) holders when renewing licenses beginning Dec. 6, 2016
• All out-of-state CDL holders transferring to Connecticut.

Wait. There’s no need to rush to DMV. Wait for your renewal notice.

Read. When you get your CDL renewal notice, read it carefully and follow instructions.

Prepare. If necessary, gather your identity documents early to avoid delays.

This new requirement is in addition to all other CDL requirements (medical, knowledge and skills testing, etc.).

Paperwork Required:

Download the official document checklist here.

In general, this additional paperwork requirement includes:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of Social Security number
• Proof of legal presence in the United States. Undocumented individuals will not be issued a CDL or CLP
• Proof of Connecticut residence. Proof must be from two sources
• Name change documents (if applicable)

Non-US Citizens

Non-US citizens must show proof of legal presence in the United States to be eligible for a CDL or CLP. If you are not a US citizen or lawful permanent resident (i.e. temporary visitor), your CLP or CDL document will have the words “Non-Domicile” on it and you will not be eligible for a hazmat endorsement.

View the original message on the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles website.