Feds Exempt Deaf Truckers From Hearing Tests, Obviously
Published Date: 1/15/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA has given 16 hard of hearing and deaf drivers a special pass to drive big trucks across state lines without needing to pass the usual hearing test. This change started on December 24, 2024, and lasts until December 24, 2026. It opens new job opportunities for these drivers without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
16 Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing Drivers Cleared To Drive Interstate
FMCSA exempted 16 named hard-of-hearing and deaf individuals from the hearing requirement in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(11), allowing them to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce. The exemptions are effective December 24, 2024 and expire December 24, 2026, and FMCSA found each exempted driver demonstrated a safe driving history.
Exemption Comes With Reporting And Operational Limits
Drivers granted these exemptions must report any crashes (per Sec. 390.5T) and any disqualifying citations or convictions to FMCSA within 7 days, submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency, and must carry a copy of the exemption while driving. The exemption holders are prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce and must still meet all commercial driver's license testing requirements.
Federal Exemption Preempts Conflicting State Laws
While the exemptions are in effect (December 24, 2024 through December 24, 2026), no State may enforce a law or regulation that conflicts with a person operating under the FMCSA exemption. This protects exempted drivers from state rules that would otherwise block their interstate operation.
Two-Year Exemption Term And Revocation Conditions
Each exemption is valid for two years from the effective date (December 24, 2024 to December 24, 2026) and may be revoked earlier if the driver fails to comply with terms, the exemption results in a lower level of safety, or continuation would conflict with statutory goals. FMCSA may also align exemption duration with medical certification cycles.
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