Feds Renew Exemptions Letting Deaf Drivers Haul Interstate Freight Loads
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 15 hard of hearing and deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. This keeps opportunities open for these drivers without changing any rules or costs. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by December 29, 2025!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
15 Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing Drivers Kept Driving
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing 15 named hard-of-hearing or deaf individuals to continue operating interstate commercial motor vehicles. The renewals were applicable in October 2025 (dates listed below) and each exemption is valid for a 2-year period (expiring on the same calendar date in 2027).
Renewals Come With Reporting And Use Limits
Each renewed exemption is valid for 2 years and requires drivers to report any crashes, citations, and convictions to FMCSA within 7 days, submit annual certified driving records, carry a copy of the exemption while driving, meet CDL testing requirements, and prohibits operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce. FMCSA may rescind an exemption early for noncompliance, safety problems, or inconsistency with statutory goals.
Federal Exemption Blocks Conflicting State Rules
While each exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption for a person operating under it. That protection lasts for the 2-year exemption period unless FMCSA rescinds the exemption earlier.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-21424, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA has given 26 hard of hearing and deaf drivers a special pass to skip the usual hearing test and drive commercial trucks across state lines. This change started on June 9, 2025, and lasts until June 9, 2027, helping these drivers get behind the wheel without extra hassle. It’s a win for inclusion and keeps our roads moving smoothly without extra costs or delays.
Next: 2025-21427, Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Determination of Fair and Reasonable Rates for Carriage of Agriculture Cargoes on U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels-46 CFR Part 382
The Maritime Administration wants your thoughts on renewing a form that helps set fair shipping rates for U.S.-flag ships carrying farm goods. Fewer people are filling out this form now, so the paperwork is lighter. If you’re involved in shipping or farming, speak up by January 27, 2026, to help keep rates fair and the process smooth!