This page answers frequently asked questions about commercial driver license requirements for foreign drivers operating in the United States. Licensing rules for foreign and non-domiciled drivers have been changing, so confirm the current rules with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration at fmcsa.dot.gov before you hire or dispatch a foreign-licensed driver.
Commercial driver licenses (CDLs)
Which countries have CDL reciprocity with the US?
Mexico (federal licenses) and Canada (provincial and territorial licenses) have CDL reciprocity with the US. Drivers licensed in other countries generally need a US-issued CDL to drive a commercial motor vehicle here. Check fmcsa.dot.gov for any current exceptions.
Do drivers residing in Mexico need a US CDL to work for a US company?
Under reciprocity, a valid Mexican federal commercial license (Licencia Federal de Conductor) is recognized in the US. It is issued by Mexico's SICT (Secretaría de Infraestructura, Comunicaciones y Transportes), formerly the SCT. Only the federal license is recognized for reciprocity, not a Mexican state license. Where a Mexico-domiciled driver may operate, and for which carriers, depends on other federal rules, so confirm the specifics with FMCSA.
How is a medical restriction shown on Canadian CDLs?
Some Canadian provinces use code "W" on the license. Check the Canadian Driver's License Reference Guide for details.
How is a medical restriction shown on US CDLs?
Code "V" is used on US CDLs for drivers with a medical variance.
Do drivers need to speak English?
Yes. Every driver operating a commercial motor vehicle in the US, including drivers licensed in Mexico or Canada, must read and speak English well enough to meet 49 CFR 391.11(b)(2). A driver who doesn't meet it can be placed out of service at roadside (CVSA).
Can a state issue a CDL to a driver who is not domiciled in the US?
FMCSA has tightened the rules for non-domiciled CDLs and learner's permits, limiting the immigration statuses that qualify and the documents a state may accept as proof (FMCSA final rule). Check the current rule and your state's licensing agency before relying on a non-domiciled CDL.
Hazardous materials and cross-border drivers
Do US drivers need a TDG (Transportation of Dangerous Goods) certificate to haul hazardous materials in Canada?
The US CDL hazardous materials (HM) endorsement is generally recognized for transporting HM in Canada. Confirm current requirements with Transport Canada before dispatching an HM load into Canada.
Do Canadian drivers hauling tanks in the US need a tank vehicle endorsement?
A tank vehicle endorsement is generally not required for Canadian drivers, but drivers hauling HM in a tank in the US must hold a valid TDG certificate.
What proof must Canadian drivers present to transport HM in the US?
Canadian drivers must have a valid Canadian commercial license and a TDG certificate. The TDG certificate:
- Is required for anyone who handles, offers for transport or transports dangerous goods in Canada
- Is issued by the employer after the employee completes TDG training
- Reflects training on regulations, safety procedures, emergency response and requirements for the classes of dangerous goods involved
For current cross-border rules, check fmcsa.dot.gov and Transport Canada. If you'd like help building compliant driver files, see our driver qualification file service.
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