Class action seeks to block cancellation of 20,000 commercial driver’s licenses in California

Source: CNN

A major legal battle is unfolding in California over the future of nearly 20,000 commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) issued to non-residents. La Sikh Coalition and Asian Law Caucus have filed a class action lawsuit to halt the cancellations, arguing that the action ordered by the U.S. Department of Transportation is unlawful and would trigger widespread job losses as early as January 5, 2026.

According to the lawsuit, the decision would directly impact thousands of truck drivers who rely on these licenses to work legally in the trucking industry. The legal action is being brought on behalf of the Jakara Movement and five commercial drivers, who argue that revoking the licenses would severely disrupt livelihoods and create economic hardship.

A regulatory dispute at the core

The dispute stems from a disagreement between California and federal authorities over compliance with federal rules governing the issuance of CDLs to temporary residents. The DOT reportedly ordered California to stop issuing such licenses and to conduct an audit, citing non-compliance with federal standards.

In response, the California Department of Motor Vehicles moved to revoke the affected licenses. Plaintiffs contend that the move is illegal and exceeds the authority of both federal and state agencies.

Industry-wide implications

If the court does not block the cancellations, thousands of drivers could lose their ability to work at the start of 2026, potentially triggering a logistics and economic crisis. The case highlights the tension between regulatory enforcement and workforce realities at a time when driver shortages remain a critical issue across North America.