State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLA's) are Changing Their CDL License Downgrading Procedures

Effective date: November 8, 2021

Compliance date: SDLAs must become compliant by November 18, 2024


Currently, SDLAs check the driver’s status by querying the Clearinghouse prior to issuing, renewing, transferring, or upgrading a CDL. If the query indicates the driver is prohibited from operating a CMV, the SDLA must deny the requested licensing transaction, resulting in non-issuance.

Most SDLAs do not receive newly occurred drug and alcohol program violation information about CDL or CLP holders licensed in their State. This means the CMV operator continues to hold a valid CDL or CLP despite the driving prohibition.


The amendment provides a method for SDLAs to receive a notification from FMCSA of recently occurred violations so they can initiate the process to remove the CLP or CDL privilege from the driver’s license.

The State is to complete and record the CDL downgrade on the CDLIS driver record within 60 days of notification.

This rule ensures that CLP or CDL holders with drug and alcohol program violations do not operate a CMV until they complete the return to duty (RTD) process and can lawfully resume driving.

Drivers may re-apply after complying with the RTD requirements and a negative RTD test result has been reported to the Clearinghouse.

Nationwide Network of DOT Medical Examiners
509 SW Frazer Ave.
Pendleton, OR 97801
Phone: (541) 276-6032
Fax: (541) 276-7062
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Thursday 8am to 5pm
Friday 8am to 12pm