Problems with state commercial licenses

As a holder of a Class A Commercial Drivers License license for 14 years, it's a shame that this state has to make it basically impossible to obtain one, especially if you have relocated from another state. These are federal licenses, but tell that to the Illinois Secretary of State.

I had a CDL here in Illinois for nine years, went to another state, had no problems. Relocated back here, but this state lost my records. And it's been nothing but a nightmare. There are others like myself in the same position.

And all you get are excuses. These are federal tests and they can't find them. But their computers pick up your old CDL license number from Illinois. Figure that out.

You have a clean driving record, pass your medical examination and drug screens but can't get a decent truck driving job because of this Secretary of State's office neglect and rules.

With unemployment at 7.5 and 8 percent or more in the suburbs, there are companies that need experienced and qualified truck drivers. But they can't hire you because you don't have an Illinois CDL. We are starting to lose a lot of employers of truck drivers. They are relocating to Wisconsin, Indiana or other border states because the license requirements are not as stringent as Illinois.

Because these are federal licenses, the federal government needs to treat these like they treat other licenses in the federal government. If things don't change with the CDL program, in this state, especially, we will continue to lose employers and jobs. And with the economy as it is right now, that's the last thing we need - higher unemployment in this state.

Glenn Cardin

Bloomingdale