More Deaf Truckers Exempted for Safe Interstate Hauls
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 11 hard of hearing and deaf truck drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. These renewals keep safety rules fair while giving these drivers a chance to work without extra hurdles. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until December 29, 2025, to speak up!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Renewal Lets 11 Deaf Drivers Keep Driving
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing 11 hard of hearing and deaf individuals to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. Eight renewals were applicable August 13, 2025 (expire August 13, 2027) and three were applicable August 16, 2025 (expire August 16, 2027).
Ban On Driving Motorcoaches Or Buses
A condition of the exemptions prohibits these drivers from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce while the exemption is in effect. The prohibition is a stated term and condition of continuing the exemption.
Two-Year Renewable Exemption Term
FMCSA issues these medical exemptions for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver's medical certification. Each renewed exemption is valid for 2 years unless rescinded earlier by FMCSA.
Required Reporting And Compliance Rules
Drivers with these exemptions must report any crashes (as defined in Sec. 390.5T) within 7 days, report citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days, and submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency. Drivers must also meet all applicable CDL testing requirements and carry a copy of the exemption while driving.
Federal Preemption While Exemption Active
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce laws or regulations that conflict with that exemption with respect to a person operating under it. This protects the exempted drivers from conflicting state rules during the exemption period.
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