WHAT IS A NON-DOMICILED CDL?

There’s a good chance you know what a CDL is but what about a non-domiciled CDL? In this article, we’ll examine the complex term and make it as easy to understand as possible.

What is a non-domiciled CDL? A non-domiciled CDL is a commercial driver’s license that is awarded to somebody who legally lives and works in the United States but who is not a permanent resident or a citizen. While there are federal standards for a non-domiciled CDL, each state is also allowed to add more requirements, which means the process for application can vary across the country.

Can a non-citizen have a CDL license?

In the United States, you can get a regular CDL license if you are not a citizen. However, you must be a legal permanent resident.

In common terms in the United States, this is referred to as having a Green Card. When you have a Green Card or Permanent Resident Card, it means you live in the United States and pay taxes but do not have citizenship.

Under what circumstance is a non-domiciled CDL is issued?

The term non-domiciled is a legal one, which can lead to some confusion. Basically, it means that you live in the United States but are not a permanent resident. You also must be documented, as if not, you are classified as an undocumented person.

So, if you are in the United States on a visa that is still active, and is looking for legal work, you might want to consider getting your non-domiciled CDL. This way, you can get employment as a driver and still pay taxes, and be lawfully employed.

What are the requirements to apply for a non-domiciled CDL?

If you would like to apply for a non-domiciled CDL, there are certain requirements that you need to have.

First, you must be able to apply for a normal commercial driver’s license or CDL. This includes training and testing, as well as knowing what class of driving you want your license to apply to.

Secondly, you need to be a resident of a country that is not the United States, Mexico, or Canada. This is because Mexico and Canada have the same licensing standards as the United States, which means going through the whole process is redundant.

Third, you will need appropriate documentation. This can include a valid passport from your country of origin, a social security card, or an authorized document that highlights your employment.

Finally, you will need to pay the application fee.

Can you have a non-domiciled CDL if you live in Canada or Mexico?

Canada and Mexico are closely aligned with the United States thanks to their location and trade agreements. As a result, many of their licensing are the same, including the requirements to get a commercial driver’s license.

If you live in Canada or Mexico but drive in the United States, you do not need to apply for a non-domiciled CDL. Instead, you can simply use your regular CDL as this will be enough proof that you meet the United State’s driving regulations.

Are there different classes of non-domiciled CDL?

Just like a CDL, you will need to decide what class of commercial driver’s license you want to apply for. Remember that the licenses are not interchangeable and jobs will have strict policies over what you can drive, according to the type of license you have.

• A Class A CDL means you can operate a vehicle that ways up to 26,001 pounds.
• A Class B CDL means you can operate a vehicle that is 26,001 pounds or more.
• A Class C CDL means you can operate a vehicle that does not fall into a Class A or Class B category and that can transport between 16 and 23 passengers.

When you apply for your non-domiciled CDL, you will need to indicate what class of commercial driver’s license you want and show that you have the qualifications for this category.

Is a non-domiciled CDL the same across states?

There is a bit of a grey area when it comes to non-domiciled CDLs, which is why they can be confusing to those who are new to the country. While federal laws provide the basics around non-domiciled CDLs, each state has the power to make these laws stricter.

As a result, if you move from one state to the other, you will need to reapply or ask to transfer your license, even if it isn’t expired. There may be more hoops involved and you may need to provide your documentation all over again.

Whichever state you are in, be sure to look at the state’s regulations website as it will provide clear and up-to-date information. If the requirements are still confusing, it’s best to talk to a state worker directly or, if possible, talk to established trucking companies as they will have experience navigating the licensing world.  

What is a non-domiciled CDL in Texas?

In Texas, you can get a non-domiciled CDL if you are a non-US resident. The cost is $121 for both a new license and to renew an existing one.

What is a non-domiciled CDL in Illinois?

For those who want a new non-domiciled CDL in the state of Illinois, the fee is $60. The fee is the same if you want to renew an existing CDL or if you want to transfer an out-of-state CDL.

What is a non-domiciled CDL in New York?

Interestingly, if you want a non-domiciled CDL in the state of New York, you need to provide your fingerprints so they can be scanned against federal and state background checks.

Unfortunately, the New York website does not list fees associated with non-domiciled CDLs so you will need to contact someone directly for accurate information.

Conclusion

Even if you are a non-resident of the United States, you can still be licensed to drive different vehicles. To apply for a non-domiciled CDL, be sure that you can pass a regular CDL test, have all important documents handy, and be able to pay the registration fee.