Indian truck drivers in the US face licence cancellations under a new law

Indian-American truck drivers, particularly Punjabi Sikhs, are facing uncertainty after the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) cancelled 1,790 non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licences (CDLs), effective April 1, 2026. The move comes under House Enrolled Act 1200, which now restricts non-domiciled CDLs to only three visa categories: H-2A (farm workers), H-2B (temporary workers), and E-2 (treaty investors).

Previously, foreign nationals with valid work authorisation could hold these licences, but most are now ineligible. The BMV sent notifications to affected drivers on March 16, warning them of the immediate impact on their driving privileges.

Punjabi Sikhs constitute a major portion of the immigrant trucking workforce in the U.S., especially in long-haul operations. Many now face downgrading to regular driving licenses.

Lawmakers justified the restrictions by citing several fatal truck accidents involving non-domiciled drivers, emphasising the need for strict oversight, verified driving records, English proficiency, and proper training. The recent legislation aligns with federal guidelines issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, aimed at tightening scrutiny on foreign CDL holders.

The cancellations come amid a severe driver shortage in the U.S. trucking industry, raising concerns about supply chain disruptions. States like California have previously implemented similar measures, affecting thousands of immigrant drivers.