Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
Published Date: 1/6/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 25 hard of hearing or deaf truck drivers, letting them keep driving commercial vehicles across state lines. This means these drivers can continue working without having to meet the usual hearing rules. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until February 5, 2025, to speak up—no extra costs or changes for most folks.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Exemptions Renewed for 25 Deaf Drivers
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing 25 hard-of-hearing or deaf individuals to continue operating interstate commercial motor vehicles. Most renewals are for a 2-year period (effective January 15, 2025; January 22, 2025; and January 30, 2025) and expire between January 15, 2026 and January 30, 2027; one individual (Kevin Young) has an exemption expiring January 15, 2026.
Exemption Compliance Rules for Drivers
Drivers with these exemptions must follow specific rules: report any crashes within 7 days, report citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days, submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency, carry a copy of the exemption while driving, meet all commercial driver's license testing requirements, and are prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce. Each exemption is valid for up to 2 years unless rescinded earlier for noncompliance or safety concerns.
State Law Preemption During Exemption
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption for a person operating under it. The preemption applies during the period each individual driver holds the FMCSA exemption.
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