Epilepsy Won't Stop These Truckers: FMCSA Grants Driving Exemptions
Published Date: 3/27/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is letting 12 drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders drive commercial trucks across state lines, even though the usual rules say they can’t. These drivers have shown they can safely control their vehicles while on medication. This change helps qualified folks keep working without risking safety or breaking the rules.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
12 Drivers with Seizures Granted Exemptions
The FMCSA exempted 12 named individuals who have had one or more seizures and are taking anti-seizure medication from the FMCSRs rule that normally bars drivers with epilepsy or conditions likely to cause loss of consciousness. This exemption lets those 12 people operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce despite the usual prohibition.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-05254 — Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
FMCSA is renewing special permission for 25 drivers who are hard of hearing or deaf to keep driving big trucks across state lines. This means these drivers can stay on the road safely without meeting the usual hearing rules. The decision helps these folks keep their jobs and keeps goods moving without extra costs or delays.
Next: 2025-05256 — Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders; Correction
The FMCSA fixed a typo in its January 6, 2025, notice about 19 truck drivers asking to renew their special permission to drive despite having epilepsy or seizure disorders. This correction only updates a misspelled name—no changes to rules or money. If you’re one of these drivers, keep an eye on the process but don’t worry about new costs or deadlines.