USPS imposes strict May 1 deadline on non-domiciled CDL drivers for mail transport

The U.S. Postal Service has drawn a hard line on driver eligibility for its massive linehaul network. In a letter dated April 16, 2026, Chief Logistics Officer and EVP Peter Routsolias notified all suppliers that effective May 1, non-domiciled holders of Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) may not transport mail under Postal Service contracts or ordering agreements unless they have been screened and badged by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).

“Suppliers must ensure that any driver assigned to Postal Service work has satisfied all applicable screening and clearance requirements before performing service,” the letter states. “It is the supplier’s responsibility to provide the required forms and information for clearance processing.” Suppliers with questions are directed to contact their designated Administrative Official.

The directive enforces a phase-out first announced in January 2026, when USPS said it would work with contracted providers to eliminate unvetted non-domiciled CDL operators, citing alignment with Department of Transportation safety initiatives and recent audits of non-domiciled licensing practices.

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3 Comments

Jill Farris

Maybe Pete should have thought through his disdain for “legacy” companies who were compliant. Now brokers call any fly by night company they can to move the mail and pay more than the “legacy” companies charged!

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