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Florida Tightens CDL ID Rules and Will Mark Immigration Status on Driver’s Licenses

Civil-rights groups warn the changes could fuel discrimination at local offices statewide.

Overview

  • The DMV rules that take effect July 1, 2026 require commercial license and permit applicants to show legal immigration status and provide two proofs of Florida residence.
  • Florida will not accept the HSMV-71120 address certification used for regular Class E licenses for CDL or CLP applications, so applicants must bring fresh, recent proofs from the agency’s two approved lists.
  • HB 991 will require driver’s licenses issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2027 to display whether the holder is a U.S. citizen, with labels such as “NC” for non-citizens.
  • The ACLU and UnidosUS say the status label risks bias against immigrants and could also trip up some citizens, including older voters and people with recent name changes.
  • Miami-Dade’s tax collector says offices are preparing stricter ID validation, which could mean longer visits and added paperwork for people seeking or renewing licenses.