Bill would let Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands issue commercial driver's licenses

What does this do?

This bill would change federal law to officially recognize the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico as places that can issue commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) under the national system. It directs the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to help the territories meet federal safety and licensing standards, and sets a five-year grace period protecting federal highway funding while they come into compliance. It also clarifies how funding penalties would apply to the Virgin Islands after that period.

Who does it affect?

Residents of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, particularly truck drivers, bus operators, and others needing commercial licenses for transportation, construction, or delivery work.

Why does it matter?

Without this change, the territories remain excluded from the legal definition of "state" for CDL purposes, limiting their ability to issue federally recognized commercial licenses through the national system.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Five-year grace period on funding cuts
• Highway funds protected during compliance
• Penalty rules clarified for Virgin Islands