Deaf Drivers Renewed to Haul Freight Across State Lines
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 23 hard of hearing and deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. These exemptions mean they don’t have to meet the usual hearing rules but still stay safe on the road. The renewed permissions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on those to stay legal and keep earning.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 1 mixed.
23 Drivers Kept Eligible To Drive Interstate
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing 23 hard-of-hearing or deaf individuals to continue operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce despite not meeting the hearing standard in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(11). The notice lists group effective periods including March 3, 2025–March 3, 2027; March 10, 2025–March 10, 2027; March 13, 2025–March 13, 2027; and March 19, 2025–March 19, 2027.
Ban On Driving Passenger Motorcoaches Interstate
As a condition of the exemptions, drivers are prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce while the exemption is in effect.
Two-Year Exemption Period And Revocation Rules
FMCSA issues these medical exemptions for a 2-year period to align with the medical certificate; each exemption will be valid for 2 years from its effective date (e.g., March 3, 2025–March 3, 2027) unless revoked earlier for noncompliance, a resulting lower level of safety, or inconsistency with statutory goals.
Mandatory Reporting And Record Rules
Drivers granted the exemptions must report to FMCSA any crashes (as defined in Sec. 390.5T) within 7 days, report any citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days, and submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency.
Carry Exemption And Meet CDL Requirements
Each driver must have a copy of the exemption when driving and must meet all applicable commercial driver's license (CDL) testing requirements while operating under the exemption.
Federal Preemption During Exemption Period
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with the federal exemption with respect to a person operating under the exemption.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 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.
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