Alabama's foreign CDL work-authorization law now enforceable
Alabama's Highway Safety and Fairness Act, created by Act 2026-220, became enforceable October 1. The law amends Section 32-6-49.18 to let Canadian or Mexican CDL or learner permit holders drive commercial motor vehicles in Alabama only if they also carry US work authorization documents required under 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(b)(4).
The act adds new offenses. Presenting a false foreign CDL is a Class D felony. Operating without the required work-authorization documents is a Class D felony, carrying a $1,000 fine for the driver and $2,000 for the carrier plus impoundment, unless the driver can show by a preponderance of the evidence that authorization existed at the time, which drops the charge to a Class A misdemeanor.
The act also requires English proficiency under 49 C.F.R. § 391.11. A first violation draws up to $1,000 for the operator and $2,000 for the carrier, with impoundment only if the vehicle or driver is judged a safety threat. Later violations bring higher fines and mandatory impoundment. The act sets out towing, lien and freight-retrieval procedures for impounded trucks.
What's next
- Already in effect since 2026-10-01; carriers dispatching into Alabama should confirm driver documentation now.
- Watch for Alabama Law Enforcement Agency enforcement guidance or early citations.
All sources
- SB 242 (Act 2026-220): Alabama Legislature
