Feds Extend Exemptions for 25 Deaf Interstate Truck Drivers
Published Date: 3/27/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 25 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 renewals are active now and last until the dates listed, helping these drivers keep earning without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
25 Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing Drivers Kept on Road
If you are one of the 25 hard-of-hearing or deaf drivers named in this notice, FMCSA renewed your exemption from the hearing requirement in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(11) so you may continue to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. Sixteen drivers' exemptions were effective January 15, 2025 and expire January 15, 2027; six drivers' exemptions were effective January 22, 2025 and expire January 22, 2027; and three drivers' exemptions were effective January 30, 2025 and expire January 30, 2027. The exemptions let these named drivers keep driving across state lines under the terms listed in the notice.
Two-Year Exemptions With Revocation Conditions
FMCSA granted each exemption for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver's medical certification, and each renewed exemption will be valid for 2 years from its effective date. An exemption may be revoked earlier if the person fails to comply with its terms and conditions, if the exemption results in a lower level of safety than before, or if continuation would conflict with 49 U.S.C. 31136, 49 U.S.C. chapter 313, or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-05253, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA is renewing special permission for six hard of hearing or deaf drivers to keep driving big trucks across state lines until February 28, 2027. This means these drivers can continue working without meeting the usual hearing rules. If you want to share your thoughts, you have until April 28, 2025, to comment.
Next: 2025-05255, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is giving 12 people with epilepsy or seizure disorders a green light to drive commercial trucks across state lines, as long as they take their medicine and meet safety rules. This special permission starts February 1, 2025, and lasts until February 1, 2027. It’s a big win for drivers who’ve been playing by the rules but needed a little extra help to keep on trucking safely.