In 2025, major reforms to commercial driver’s license (CDL) regulations took effect nationwide. Prompted by investigations into several fatal truck crashes linked to improperly issued CDLs, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued an emergency interim rule to restore the integrity of the CDL system, particularly for non-domiciled drivers (i.e., non-citizens or permanent residents). The goal is to ensure that only properly vetted, qualified drivers are allowed to operate large commercial vehicles on U.S. roads. As a result, finding the best truck accident attorney who understands how to build a strong case with these new regulations is even more important. The attorneys at Matera & Manley, LLP, want to give you an overview of the new CDL law and how it will affect litigation going forward.
Understanding the 2025 CDL Law Changes
To improve road safety, the FMCSA implemented several key updates:
- Tighter eligibility standards: Non-domiciled CDL and commercial learner’s permit (CLP) applicants must now hold valid employment-based visas. Employment Authorization Documents alone no longer qualify.
- Stricter documentation requirements: Drivers must present an unexpired foreign passport and a Form I-94 or I-94A record.
- Annual in-person renewals: Online or mail renewals are no longer permitted for non-domiciled CDLs. Each renewal must be verified in person to confirm lawful status.
- State compliance audits: States must pause issuing non-domiciled CDLs until they demonstrate compliance. Non-compliant states risk decertification and loss of federal highway funds.
- Language proficiency enforcement: Drivers must be able to read and speak English sufficiently. Failure to meet this standard can now lead to an immediate out-of-service designation.
These regulatory updates represent a shift toward greater accountability at every level, laying the groundwork for how future litigation unfolds.
How the Law Affects a Truck Accident Attorney’s Case
The new CDL regulations will have a substantial impact on how truck accident cases are litigated in 2025 and beyond. For victims, these changes open new avenues to hold negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable.
Expanded Grounds for Negligence
When a crash involves a non-domiciled CDL driver, attorneys can investigate whether the driver met the new federal eligibility requirements. If the CDL was issued or renewed without proper visa documentation or in violation of the updated standards, that non-compliance can strengthen a negligence claim. In some cases, support allegations of negligent hiring or retention against carriers that failed to verify or monitor driver compliance.
Stronger Liability for Carriers and Employers
The 2025 CDL law expands accountability beyond drivers to include carriers. Employers are legally required to verify their drivers’ qualifications. Those who hire or retain drivers with invalid or noncompliant CDLs risk liability for negligent supervision and safety violations. By reviewing employment records, visa documentation, CDL renewals, and communications with state agencies, attorneys can uncover patterns of non-compliance that expose systemic negligence.
Enhanced Evidentiary Opportunities
The FMCSA’s new auditing and compliance rules require state licensing agencies to maintain detailed records for every non-domiciled CDL. This gives attorneys access to verifiable documentation that was previously unavailable. Combined with a visa, Form I-94, and employment verification records, this evidence can reveal whether a carrier complied with federal safety mandates. As a result, this helps prove liability in serious or fatal truck accident cases.
How Truck Accident Attorneys at Matera & Manley, LLP, Can Help
At Matera & Manley, LLP, our attorneys closely monitor regulatory developments that shape the future of truck accident litigation. The 2025 CDL law represents one of the most significant changes in recent years, and our firm is already incorporating these standards into our investigative and litigation strategies.
When representing clients injured in a truck collision, our legal team takes a comprehensive approach:
- Regulatory analysis: We assess whether the truck driver and carrier complied with updated federal and state CDL requirements.
- Data-driven investigation: We obtain and analyze licensing, immigration, and employment records to determine whether the driver lawfully operated under the new rules.
- Employer accountability: We evaluate the carrier’s hiring, supervision, and safety practices to determine whether they violated FMCSA standards or internal compliance policies.
- Strategic litigation: We use evidence of CDL law violations to build stronger liability claims and pursue the maximum compensation for our clients.
Moreover, our experience in handling complex trucking cases positions us to deliver strong results for victims. Working with our attorneys means your case is built on both legal and technical precision.
Hiring the Best Truck Accident Attorney in Long Island
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, securing representation from an experienced attorney is vital. Our attorneys stand ready to help you navigate these new complexities and pursue full justice for your injuries. Schedule a free consultation today to learn how we can strengthen your case and protect your right to compensation.
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