In December 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation highlighted significant compliance issues within Colorado's commercial driver's license program. An audit conducted in October revealed that approximately 22% of commercial licenses issued to immigrants, including many Mexican nationals, were granted illegally, which violates federal regulations. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized Colorado for its slow response and failure to address the issues identified in the audit, including the completion of a full review and the revocation of improperly issued licenses. Duffy's report indicated that the lack of action could endanger public safety by allowing unqualified drivers on the roads. Colorado's Governor, Jared Polis, defended the state's actions, asserting that they had nearly completed the investigation and were ready to send notifications to those affected. Polis described the situation as a miscommunication and emphasized that the state was acting quickly to revoke the licenses of those who obtained them improperly. Despite Governor Polis's assurances, Duffy reiterated that if the state did not act promptly, the Transportation Department could take further action, including potential decertification of the state's commercial driver’s license program. This clash between state and federal officials has broader implications, reflecting ongoing tensions between Colorado's government and the Trump administration. Duffy's strong stance also follows a tragic incident in Florida involving an unauthorized truck driver, which heightened scrutiny on state licensing practices nationwide. Colorado's Division of Motor Vehicles has temporarily halted the issuance and renewal of certain licenses pending a thorough compliance audit. The uncertainty surrounding these licenses not only affects the drivers but may also disrupt business operations across the state as the reviews proceed. The critical nature of qualified drivers in transporting cargo and passengers adds urgency to Duffy's warnings about safety. Other states, including New York, California, and Pennsylvania, have faced similar accusations regarding their licensing practices. The outcome of Colorado's compliance review and the federal government's response will be watched closely as a bellwether for how states can navigate complex immigration and licensing regulations moving forward.