The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has announced plans to phase out the use of non-domiciled truck drivers by its contracted trucking providers in an effort to bolster safety on the nation’s roadways. This move comes as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to meet federal regulations and ensure the highest safety standards in the transportation of mail and packages.
The decision, revealed in early January 2026, underscores growing concerns surrounding the qualifications of truck drivers employed in the industry. With a fleet that moves millions of miles annually, the USPS is prioritizing safety as it navigates the complexities of freight transport. By tightening requirements for non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders, the Postal Service aims to prevent safety incidents while also adhering to newly revised Department of Transportation policies.
Safety First: Stricter Vetting of Non-Domiciled Drivers
According to USPS, the policy shift is designed to address gaps in the current driver vetting process. Non-domiciled CDLs are issued to individuals whose licenses are obtained in states where they are not permanently based. These licenses are often held by foreign nationals or undocumented immigrants. The new rules, effective from January 2026, mandate that all contracted drivers with non-domiciled CDLs must undergo thorough vetting by the USPS Postal Inspection Service before being allowed to operate on USPS contracts.
The announcement follows several years of heightened scrutiny over the safety of truck drivers on U.S. highways. Fatal accidents involving drivers with non-domiciled CDLs have prompted the USPS to take action to ensure the safety of its workers and the general public. The change is particularly important given the USPS’s extensive transportation network, which spans nearly two billion miles annually. Ensuring that all drivers meet stringent safety standards is critical to maintaining the integrity of the service’s operations.
USPS Board of Governors Chairwoman Amber McReynolds emphasized the importance of safety in the agency’s decision, stating that the Postal Service is committed to maintaining the highest possible safety standards. McReynolds also pointed to the Postal Inspection Service’s role in enhancing safety measures. The service’s officers, who oversee the security of postal facilities and vehicles, will now play an integral role in screening drivers. This new process adds an extra layer of protection to USPS’s already robust safety protocols.
A Step Toward Compliance: Aligning with Federal Regulations
The USPS’s decision to tighten its regulations is not only a response to safety concerns but also aligns with the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) broader efforts to restore integrity to the CDL issuance process. According to reports the Trump administration introduced stricter guidelines for the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs, following a series of investigations into state-level noncompliance. The new rules temporarily block states from issuing non-domiciled licenses unless they meet federal standards for driver qualification.
The USPS’s new vetting requirement complements these federal initiatives and reflects ongoing efforts to improve safety and compliance across the trucking industry. As the agency transports more than 55,000 loads daily, it is clear that upholding safety standards is critical to ensuring the safe delivery of mail and packages to millions of American homes.
Postmaster General David Steiner expressed confidence that the new policy will enhance the reliability and efficiency of USPS operations. By adhering to these stricter standards, the Postal Service aims to safeguard its workforce and continue delivering essential services with a focus on safety. In light of these developments, the USPS is setting a precedent for other agencies and private companies in the trucking sector, reinforcing the need for strict compliance with safety protocols.
