Punjab Newsline | Chandiagarh
The US state of Indiana has cancelled the driving licenses of individuals who were residing illegally, affecting a large number of Punjabi drivers. With the implementation of a new law, around 1,790 drivers have lost their jobs, most of whom are reportedly from Punjab and Haryana.
There are now discussions about extending this law across the United States, which could put nearly 150,000 drivers from these regions currently working on permits at risk of losing their licenses.
According to Indiana’s licensing authority, the decision was taken after a series of accidents involving Indian drivers. Investigations revealed that many drivers from Punjab and Haryana were unable to read road signs in English or communicate effectively in the language.
Governor Mike Braun signed the House Enrolled Act 1200 in March 2026. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) had issued notices to 1,790 drivers on March 16, informing them about the cancellation of their licenses. With the law coming into effect, all non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) held by individuals without H-2A, H-2B, or E-2 visas automatically expired on April 1.