Concerns Over Immigrant Driver Licenses: New York Under Scrutiny

Sat Dec 13 2025 03:35:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Recent statements from the U.S. Transportation Secretary call into question the legality of immigrant-issued driver licenses in New York, threatening federal funding if issues are not addressed.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has raised alarms over the legitimacy of commercial driver licenses issued to immigrants in New York, stating that more than half of them were issued improperly. He has threatened to withhold $73 million in highway funds unless the state addresses these concerns. State officials insist they comply with federal regulations, sparking a contentious debate.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a stern warning to New York regarding the issuance of non-domiciled driver licenses to immigrants. Duffy claims that more than half of the licenses reviewed were issued improperly and highlighted a serious lack of oversight in verifying drivers’ immigration statuses.

The federal government’s scrutiny comes after a tragic incident involving an unauthorized truck driver who caused a fatal crash due to an illegal maneuver in Florida. In light of this, Duffy asserts that without corrective measures, he may hold back $73 million in federal highway funds from New York.

Investigations revealed troubling statistics: many commercial licenses were issued valid for eight years, disregarding the actual work permit's expiration date. Duffy called for immediate action from state leadership, urging New York Governor Kathy Hochul to address what he termed a 'dereliction of duty.'

In defense, New York officials argue their compliance with federal regulations, asserting that they are diligently verifying immigration statuses for their drivers. DMV spokesperson Walter McClure stated, 'Secretary Duffy is lying about New York State once again in a desperate attempt to distract from the failing, chaotic administration he represents.'

Currently, immigrant drivers make up about 20% of all truck operators, while non-domiciled licenses only account for a small portion of commercial licenses. Similar audits have prompted states like California, Pennsylvania, and Minnesota to face pressures regarding their licensing practices.

Duffy’s criticisms extend beyond New York, having previously threatened sanctions to other states governed by Democrats, asserting that truck driver safety remains his priority, regardless of political affiliation. With 30 days to respond, New York is now under pressure to demonstrate its adherence to federally mandated license issuance protocols.