Six Deaf Truck Drivers Get Renewed Road Permissions from FMCSA
Published Date: 7/24/2025
Notice
Summary
FMCSA is renewing special permission for six hard of hearing or deaf drivers 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 keep good drivers working without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Hearing Exemptions Renewed for Six Drivers
FMCSA renewed exemptions for six hard-of-hearing or deaf individuals so they may continue to operate commercial motor vehicles (big trucks) in interstate commerce without meeting the FMCSRs hearing requirement. This decision lets those six drivers keep driving across state lines and continue working under the renewed exemption.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2025-13975 — Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is giving 11 people with epilepsy or seizure disorders a green light to drive big trucks across state lines, even though the usual rules say they can’t. These folks have shown they can safely drive while on their seizure meds. This change helps them keep working without extra costs or delays.
Next: 2025-13977 — Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA got requests from 11 people who are hard of hearing or deaf, asking to skip the hearing test to drive big trucks across state lines. If approved, these folks can legally drive commercial vehicles despite their hearing challenges. This could open new job opportunities without extra costs or delays for them or the industry.