Deaf Truckers Roll On with Renewed Fed Blessings
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 18 hard of hearing and 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. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until December 29, 2025, to speak up—no extra costs or changes for most folks.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
18 Drivers Allowed to Keep Driving Interstate
FMCSA renewed exemptions for 18 named hard-of-hearing and deaf individuals so they may continue to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce. One exemption was applicable July 1, 2025 and expires July 1, 2027; the other 17 were applicable July 30, 2025 and expire July 30, 2027.
Exemptions Can Be Rescinded Early for Safety or Noncompliance
FMCSA may rescind an exemption before its two-year expiration if the driver fails to comply with the exemption terms, the exemption results in a lower level of safety, or continuation would conflict with statutory goals. The agency will evaluate any adverse evidence and may immediately revoke the exemption if safety is compromised.
Exemptions Carry Specific Compliance Requirements
Each exempted driver must report any crash within 7 days, report any citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days, submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency, meet all commercial driver's license testing requirements, and carry a copy of the exemption when driving. Drivers are also prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce while under the exemption.
State Laws Preempted During Exemption Period
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption with respect to a person operating under it. This preemption applies for the duration of each driver's exemption period (the two-year terms noted above).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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2026-19809, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 18 hard of hearing and deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. These renewals keep the roads open for skilled drivers who don’t meet the usual hearing rules. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until October 28, 2026, to speak up—no extra costs or changes for drivers, just continued chances to drive!
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Next: 2025-21429, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA has renewed special permissions for 17 hard of hearing and deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines despite not meeting the usual hearing rules. These exemptions help skilled drivers stay on the road safely without extra costs or delays. The renewed permissions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on their expiration.