Epilepsy Sufferers Petition FMCSA for Big Rig Driving Rights
Published Date: 7/24/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA got 11 requests from people with epilepsy or seizure disorders asking to drive big trucks across state lines. If approved, these folks—who take medicine to control their seizures—could legally hit the road again. This could change the rules for drivers with certain health conditions and might open new job opportunities soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Possible Exemptions Let Some Drivers With Seizures Drive Interstate
The FMCSA received 11 applications from people with a clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or other seizure disorders asking for an exemption from the rule that bars drivers likely to lose consciousness. If granted, these exemptions would let those individuals who have had one or more seizures and are taking anti-seizure medication operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-13978, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
FMCSA is renewing special permission for 16 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 jobs rolling without extra costs or delays.
Next: 2025-13980, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 15 drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders to keep driving big trucks across state lines. These drivers take medicine to control their seizures and have shown they can drive safely. This decision helps them keep their jobs without any new costs or delays.