Deaf Truckers Cleared to Haul Freight Across State Lines
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA has renewed special permissions for 17 hard of hearing and deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines despite not meeting the usual hearing rules. These exemptions help skilled drivers stay on the road safely without extra costs or delays. The renewed permissions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on their expiration.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
17 Drivers Allowed to Keep Driving
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing 17 hard-of-hearing or deaf individuals to operate interstate commercial motor vehicles despite not meeting the hearing standard. Fifteen drivers’ exemptions were effective April 21, 2025 and expire April 21, 2027; two drivers’ exemptions were effective April 26, 2025 and expire April 26, 2027.
State Laws Preempted During Exemption
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce a law or regulation that conflicts with the exemption for that exempt driver. This protection lasts for the 2-year exemption period (for these drivers, through April 21 or April 26, 2027 as applicable).
Reporting and Record Conditions
Drivers granted these exemptions must report any crashes (as defined in Sec. 390.5T) and any citations or convictions for disqualifying offenses to FMCSA within 7 days, and must submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency. They must also carry a copy of the exemption when driving and meet all commercial driver's license testing requirements.
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