Oversized Truckers Skip 30-Minute Breaks to Haul Giant Wind Blades
Published Date: 12/4/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing a special rule that lets drivers hauling super big or heavy loads skip the usual 30-minute rest break. This affects drivers moving oversized or overweight cargo with special permits and keeps things safe while giving them more flexibility. The new exemption runs from June 17, 2025, to June 17, 2030, helping these drivers keep on trucking without extra delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Exemption from 30‑Minute Break Rule
FMCSA renewed an exemption to 49 CFR 395.3(a)(3)(ii) that lets drivers hauling oversize (OS) or overweight (OW) loads with a government permit skip the required 30‑minute rest break. The exemption is effective June 17, 2025 through June 17, 2030 and applies only to drivers moving those loads in interstate commerce.
Intrastate Drivers Are Not Covered
Drivers moving oversize or overweight loads that do NOT operate in interstate commerce are not eligible for this exemption and must follow the 30‑minute rest break rule. The exemption explicitly covers only drivers of loads that require a permit and move in interstate commerce.
Drivers Must Carry Exemption Paperwork
When using the exemption, drivers must have a copy of the exemption document in their possession and present it to law enforcement on request. Motor carriers using the exemption must also notify FMCSA within 5 business days of any positive drug or alcohol tests or any accidents involving CMVs operating under the exemption and provide specified crash and driver details.
Federal Preemption for Interstate Operations
While the exemption is in effect (June 17, 2025 to June 17, 2030), no State may enforce a law that conflicts with this exemption for interstate operations by firms or persons operating under it. States may, but are not required to, adopt the same exemption for intrastate operations.
Exemption Can Be Rescinded for Safety or Noncompliance
FMCSA may rescind the exemption if SC&RA or drivers fail to comply with its terms, if the exemption results in a lower level of safety, or if continuation would conflict with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b). Rescission would end the exemption before June 17, 2030.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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