Deaf Truck Drivers Get Renewed Green Light on Interstate Routes
Published Date: 12/19/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 13 hard of hearing or deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines despite the usual hearing rules. These renewals keep things rolling smoothly without extra costs or delays. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by January 20, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
13 Drivers Kept on Road Despite Hearing Rule
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing 13 specific hard-of-hearing or deaf individuals to keep driving interstate commercial motor vehicles even though they do not meet the hearing standard in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(11). Six drivers' renewals were applicable on November 3, 2025 and expire November 3, 2027; seven drivers' renewals were applicable on November 19, 2025 and expire November 19, 2027.
Exemptions Carry Compliance Conditions
Each renewed exemption is valid for 2 years and requires the driver to report crashes and any disqualifying citations/convictions to FMCSA within 7 days, submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency, carry a copy of the exemption while driving, and meet all CDL testing requirements. Each exempted driver is also prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce, and FMCSA may rescind the exemption if terms are not met or safety declines.
State Laws Preempted During Exemption
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with the exemption for a person operating under it. This ensures that the named exempt drivers may operate under the FMCSA exemption without conflicting state enforcement during the exemption period.
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