Goodbye Glow Tape: Old Trailers Get Regulatory Relief from FMCSA
Published Date: 5/30/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FMCSA wants to scrap the old rule that made truckers add shiny reflective tape to trailers made before 1993. Since most trailers on the road today are newer, this rule is outdated and no longer needed. This change means fewer hassles for truckers without risking safety, and it’s set to clear up confusing rules soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Old Trailer Reflective Tape Rule Removed
FMCSA proposes to remove the rule that requires motor carriers engaged in interstate commerce to install retroreflective tape or reflex reflectors on semitrailers and trailers that were manufactured before December 1, 1993, are 2,032 mm (80 inches) wide or more, and have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 kg (10,001 pounds) or more. The retrofitting requirement was originally adopted March 31, 1999, and FMCSA says most trailers today were made after 1993, so rescinding it would eliminate obsolete rules without compromising safety.
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