11 Seizure Patients Beg Feds for Interstate Trucker Exemptions
Published Date: 3/27/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA got requests from 11 people with epilepsy or seizure disorders asking to drive big trucks across state lines. If approved, these folks—who take medicine to control seizures—could legally hit the road again. You’ve got until April 28, 2025, to share your thoughts, and this could open new job chances without extra costs for drivers or companies.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Eleven drivers seek interstate CMV exemptions
FMCSA received applications from 11 individuals with a clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or seizure disorders asking for exemptions from 49 CFR 391.41(b)(8). If FMCSA grants an exemption, an approved individual would be allowed to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in interstate commerce despite the diagnosis; all applicants stated they take anti-seizure medication and have been seizure-free since dates ranging from 2004 to 2017. The public comment period for these petitions closes on April 28, 2025.
Exemptions issued for two-year periods
FMCSA states it grants medical exemptions from the FMCSRs for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver's medical certification. If any of the 11 petitions are granted, the exemption would be issued for a 2-year period with terms and conditions identified in the published decision.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-05249, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 15 truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial vehicles across state lines while on anti-seizure meds. This keeps safe, experienced drivers on the road without breaking the rules. If you want to share your thoughts, send comments by April 28, 2025.
Next: 2025-05251, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 19 truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial vehicles across state lines while on medication. This means these drivers, who might have been stopped before, can continue working safely and legally. These renewals have specific start and end dates, so drivers and companies should keep an eye on those to stay compliant.