H.R. 5656In committeeJobs & the economy
Bill would let Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands issue commercial driver's licenses
Data as of July 12, 2026
HR 5656 would let Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands issue federally recognized commercial driver's licenses.50-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
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
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee — You are here
- House vote
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
To amend title 49, United States Code, to grant the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico eligibility to issue commercial driver's licenses, and for other purposes.
- Introduced:
- September 30, 2025
- Latest action:
- December 1, 2025
Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.