Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
Published Date: 1/15/2025
Notice
Summary
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.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
13 Hearing-Impaired Drivers Kept Driving
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing 13 hard-of-hearing and deaf individuals to keep operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce even though they do not meet the hearing requirement in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(11). The renewals were applicable on December 16, 2024; December 22, 2024; and December 30, 2024 and each exemption expires two years after its applicable date (December 16, 2026; December 22, 2026; December 30, 2026).
Two-Year Term and Revocation Rules
Each renewed exemption is valid for 2 years from its effective date and will be revoked earlier if the person fails to follow the exemption terms, the exemption causes a lower level of safety, or continuation would conflict with 49 U.S.C. 31136, chapter 313, or the FMCSRs. These conditions govern the continued legal ability of the exempted drivers to operate CMVs in interstate commerce during the two-year period.
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-00745, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
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.
Next: 2025-00747, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for eight drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial trucks across state lines while on medication. This means folks who’ve had seizures but are managing their condition safely can keep working without breaking the rules. These renewals have specific start and end dates, so drivers and companies should keep an eye on those to stay compliant.