Sky Transport Solutions
California DMV Cancelling Nondomiciled CDLs
In an official statement,
the California DMV announced they will not be issuing nondomiciled commercial
learning permits (CLPs) or nondomiciled commercial driver’s licenses
(CDL).
As of March 6, 2026, approximately
13,000 notified drivers have had their CDLs canceled. This cancellation applies not just to the
CDL, but also the noncommercial Class C driver’s license.
What this means for drivers:
- No Commercial Driving: Affected drivers are immediately unable to operate a commercial vehicle.
- No Personal Driving: Because the entire license is revoked, affected drivers are also legally unable to operate a regular passenger vehicle until obtaining a new license.
- Indefinite Delays: While drivers can reapply for a CDL, the DMV has stated they do not know when they will be allowed to issue non-domiciled CDLs again. All new CDL applications are currently being placed on hold.
Steps to apply for a new Class C noncommercial license (or to reapply for a non-domiciled CDL
- Complete the online application to select commercial or noncommercial Class C
- Schedule an Appointment with your local DMV
- Surrender your cancelled license in your possession
- Bring your notice letter from the DMV (if you received one), and proof of identity and residency
- Pay the application fee
- Take a vision test
- Take a photo
What happens next
If you submit a new CDL application, you will be issued a
temporary noncommercial driver’s license that is good for 60 days. If the DMV determines you do not qualify for
a CDL, you will be issued a standard noncommercial Class C license instead.
If you have additional questions, the DMV has set up a
dedicated phone line (916) 306-5153 to schedule priority appointments to
at least regain Class C privileges.
DMV Director Steve Gordon has stated that there are
currently “no guarantees” when the federal pause on commercial licenses will be
lifted.
Sky Transport Solutions will update this story as new
information is provided.