Exemption Application: Commercial Driver's License; Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis

The AFL-CIO, a federation of labor unions, supports the exemption application for Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis to allow DACA recipients to obtain Class B CDLs. They argue that the current rule prohibiting these licenses harms workers, unions, and communities by forcing qualified drivers into lower-paying jobs or unemployment.

Public Citizen, a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization, urges the FMCSA to grant an exemption that would allow DACA recipients with valid Employment Authorization Documents to obtain and renew non-domiciled Class B commercial driver's licenses. They argue that the current rule lacks a safety justification because DACA recipients have domestic driving histories and that the exemption would actually improve safety by mitigating the risks associated with a severe shortage of experienced CDL drivers.

Teamsters California is writing in support of Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis’s request for an exemption to obtain a Class B CDL as a DACA recipient. They argue that the FMCSA's rule prohibiting DACA holders from obtaining CDLs lacks a valid safety justification, as these drivers have domestic driving histories and undergo rigorous vetting.

A trucking company owner supports the exemption application, arguing that drivers with work permits are responsible, experienced, and essential to the economy. The commenter notes that these drivers have proven safety records and are willing to undergo additional testing to maintain their livelihoods.

The commenter is a DACA recipient who is directly affected by the inability to hold a Class B Commercial Driver's License. They argue that they have met all licensing requirements and that the current policy negatively impacts their employment, financial stability, and ability to serve their community.

The commenter, a commercial driver, supports the exemption application for Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis. They argue that maintaining CDL privileges for DACA recipients is important for preserving livelihoods and jobs in the commercial driving industry.

The commenter argues in favor of allowing DACA recipients to maintain or obtain commercial driver's licenses. They contend that these drivers are qualified, vetted, and necessary for maintaining supply chains and supporting local businesses.

The commenter opposes the 2026 Non Domiciled Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Final Rule because it disproportionately penalizes DACA recipients who have documented safety records and undergo federal vetting. They argue that the rule will cause operational disruptions in high-demand sectors like public transit and school bus services while causing severe economic and social harm to DACA drivers.

The commenter, a DACA recipient and former waste collection driver, argues that the FMCSA should allow DACA recipients who meet all safety and qualification requirements to obtain and maintain a Class B CDL. They contend that drivers should be evaluated on their skills and medical fitness rather than their immigration status.

The commenter, a commercial driver and trainer, expresses concern that being unable to renew their CDL as a DACA holder would negatively impact their career and livelihood. They urge the agency to approve the exemption to allow DACA holders to continue working and growing within the transportation industry.