Deaf Drivers Get Green Light to Haul Freight Across America
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 14 hard of hearing or deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. This means these drivers can continue working without having to meet the usual hearing rules. The renewed exemptions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on those to stay legal and safe.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
14 Deaf/Hard‑of‑Hearing Drivers Cleared
FMCSA renewed exemptions for 14 named hard‑of‑hearing or deaf drivers so they may continue to operate interstate commercial motor vehicles despite the hearing standard. Twelve drivers’ exemptions are effective June 17, 2025 and expire June 17, 2027; two drivers’ exemptions are effective June 30, 2025 and expire June 30, 2027.
Federal Preemption While Exemptions Active
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce a law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption with respect to a person operating under it. This federal preemption applies for the duration of each driver’s 2‑year exemption period.
Exemption Terms: Reporting and Limits
Drivers granted the exemptions must report any crashes (as defined in §390.5T) and any disqualifying citations or convictions to FMCSA within 7 days, and must submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver’s Licensing Agency. Exempt drivers are prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce, must carry a copy of the exemption while driving, and must meet all commercial driver’s license testing requirements.
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