Deaf Truckers Cleared to Drive Big Rigs Across States Until 2027
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permission for six hard of hearing or deaf truck drivers to keep driving big trucks across state lines until September 12, 2027. This means these drivers can continue working without having to meet the usual hearing rules. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until December 29, 2025, to speak up!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Six deaf or hard‑of‑hearing drivers kept driving
FMCSA renewed exemptions for six named hard‑of‑hearing or deaf individuals (Daniel Alcozer, Loir Greenidge, Kenneth Lloyd, Tia Matthews, Eduwin Pineiro, Jason Swearington) allowing them to operate interstate commercial motor vehicles despite the hearing standard. The exemptions became applicable September 12, 2025 and will expire September 12, 2027.
Exemptions can be revoked for safety or noncompliance
FMCSA may rescind an exemption earlier than September 12, 2027 if the driver fails to comply with the exemption terms, if the exemption results in a lower level of safety than before, or if continuation would be inconsistent with statutory goals. The Agency solicits comments on these renewals, with comments due on or before December 29, 2025; adverse evidence may prompt immediate revocation actions.
Exempt drivers must meet reporting and record rules
Each exempt driver must report any crash (as defined in Sec. 390.5T) and any citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days, submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency, carry a copy of the exemption while driving, and meet all commercial driver's license testing requirements.
Federal exemption preempts conflicting State rules
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with the exemption with respect to a person operating under it. The preemption applies for the duration of the exemption (through September 12, 2027 unless rescinded earlier).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-21419, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA has given 11 hard of hearing and deaf drivers special permission to skip the usual hearing test and drive commercial trucks across state lines. This change started on August 30, 2025, and lasts until August 30, 2027. It opens new job opportunities without extra costs or delays for these drivers.
Next: 2025-21421, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 14 hard of hearing or deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. This means these drivers can continue working without having to meet the usual hearing rules. The renewed exemptions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on those to stay legal and safe.