UNITED SIKHS Calls on California DMV to Fully Restore Sikh Commercial Drivers’ Licenses

UNITED SIKHS is urging the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to take immediate and comprehensive action to restore commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) that were confiscated, downgraded, or cancelled prior to the January 5, 2026 deadline. The organization has raised concerns that rescinding cancellation notices alone is insufficient, and that the DMV must implement a clear operational plan to reinstate licenses without requiring drivers to reapply.

UNITED SIKHS has engaged directly with state authorities, consulted legal counsel, and coordinated with civil rights organizations to safeguard the rights of Sikh CDL holders impacted by inconsistent enforcement and regulatory uncertainty.

Here’s what UNITED SIKHS Leadership says:

Hardayal Singh, Programs Director, UNITED SIKHS

“These drivers followed the rules, built careers, and kept California’s supply chains moving, yet many were sidelined overnight by inconsistent enforcement. Restoring trust requires more than reversing decisions; it requires accountability and clear, lawful implementation.”

The organization has documented cases of drivers who suffered economic and professional harm, including job loss and disruption to livelihoods. UNITED SIKHS continues to pursue a multi‑layered strategy to address both individual cases and systemic compliance failures.

Manvinder Singh, UNITED SIKHS

“Through careful review of dozens of CDL holders’ documents and interviews, we know this crisis stems from an administrative error. The DMV could correct the dates on CDLs and immediately reissue licenses without requiring reapplication, since the necessary records are already in the system.”

Bhupinder Kaur, Director of Operations, UNITED SIKHS

“For drivers whose CDLs were confiscated, downgraded, or cancelled, simply rescinding a notice is not meaningful relief. What’s required is a clear, operational plan to restore licenses without forcing drivers to reapply or endure further delays.”

UNITED SIKHS continues to assess lawful avenues to ensure relief for drivers who have already lost their CDL privileges and to prevent further inconsistent or improper enforcement during this period of regulatory uncertainty.

About UNITED SIKHS

UNITED SIKHS is an international, non-profit humanitarian organization affiliated with the U.N., committed to empowering disadvantaged and minority communities across the globe. Its mission is to provide support and resources to those in need, advocating for equality, justice, and human rights. Through various humanitarian projects and advocacy efforts, UNITED SIKHS works to uplift vulnerable communities, aiming to make a lasting positive impact on the world.

For media inquiries or to support UNITED SIKHS’ legal advocacy efforts, please contact:

Gurleen Kaur

Director of Media and Public Relations

gurleen.kaur@unitedsikhs.org | media@unitedsikhs.org