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.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-11809 — Self-Regulatory Organizations; Cboe BZX Exchange, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of a Proposed Rule Change To Adopt Fees for Its New Clock Service
Cboe BZX Exchange just rolled out a new Clock Service that helps users sync their time systems with the Exchange’s for better accuracy. Starting May 18, 2026, they’re charging fees for this service but offering a free trial to get everyone started. This affects both members and non-members who want precise timing for their trading activities.
2026-11810 — Self-Regulatory Organizations; Cboe EDGX Exchange, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of a Proposed Rule Change To Adopt Fees for Its New Clock Service
Cboe EDGX Exchange just rolled out a new Clock Service that helps users sync their time systems perfectly with the Exchange. Starting May 18, 2026, they’re charging fees for this service but also offering a free trial to get everyone on board. This affects both members and non-members who want precise timing for their trading activities.
2026-11815 — Self-Regulatory Organizations; Nasdaq PHLX LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change To Amend Options 7, Sections 2, 5 and 9B
Nasdaq PHLX is updating its options pricing rules to change how customer rebates, index options fees, and port fees work. These changes affect traders using the exchange by adjusting rebate tiers and fees, aiming to keep things fair and clear. The new rules took effect right after filing on May 27, 2026, so traders should check how these updates might impact their costs.
2026-11901 — 60-Day Notice of Intent To Seek Extension of Approval of Collection: Recordations (Rail and Water Carrier Liens), Water Carrier Tariffs, and Agricultural Contract Summaries
The Surface Transportation Board wants to keep collecting info about rail and water carrier liens, water carrier tariffs, and agricultural contract summaries—just like they’ve been doing, with no changes. This affects big railroads and water carriers who file these records, and they’re asking for your thoughts by August 11, 2026. No new fees or extra paperwork, just a smooth extension to keep things running.
2026-11812 — Self-Regulatory Organizations; Cboe EDGA Exchange, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of a Proposed Rule Change To Adopt Fees for Its New Clock Service
Cboe EDGA Exchange just rolled out a new Clock Service to help traders sync their time systems perfectly. Starting May 18, 2026, users can try it for free, but after that, there will be fees for using this handy tool. This change affects anyone who wants precise timing for trading and keeps things running smoothly.
2026-11913 — Large Vertical Shaft Engines From China; Scheduling of Expedited Five-Year Reviews
The U.S. International Trade Commission is speeding up reviews to decide if tariffs on large vertical shaft engines from China should stay or go. This affects U.S. businesses that make or sell these engines and could impact prices or jobs depending on the outcome. The review started on May 8, 2026, and aims to protect American industries from unfair competition.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-00744 — Land Acquisitions; Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians, Vallejo Site, Solano County, California
The government is officially setting aside 160 acres of land in Vallejo, California, for the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians to use for gaming and other community purposes. This change, finalized on January 10, 2025, means the land will be held in trust by the U.S. for the tribe, helping support their growth and opportunities. No direct money changes were mentioned, but this move opens doors for future development and benefits.
Next: 2025-00746 — Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 13 hard of hearing and deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. These exemptions mean they don’t have to meet the usual hearing rules but still follow all other safety laws. The renewed permissions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on those to stay legal and keep rolling.