To amend title 49, United States Code, to grant the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico eligibility to issue commercial driver's licenses, and for other purposes.

# Bill Summary: HR 5656 **What the Bill Does** This bill would allow the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico to issue commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) to their residents. Currently, federal law restricts CDL issuance to U.S. states, which excludes these two U.S. territories.

The bill amends federal transportation regulations to grant these territories the same authority that states have to certify and issue licenses to commercial truck drivers and other professional drivers. **Who It Affects** The legislation primarily impacts residents of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands who drive commercial vehicles professionally. It would also affect trucking companies and transportation businesses operating in these territories, potentially streamlining licensing processes and reducing barriers to employment in commercial driving industries. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Stacey Plaskett (Democrat, U.S. Virgin Islands) but remains in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full House vote. No further action has been taken at this time.