Can Deaf Drivers Haul Freight? Feds Ponder Truck Exemptions for 12
Published Date: 12/19/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is considering requests from 12 people who are hard of hearing or deaf to be allowed to drive big trucks across state lines without meeting the usual hearing rules. If approved, these folks can work as commercial drivers, opening new job opportunities. You’ve got until January 20, 2026, to share your thoughts, and this could change who gets behind the wheel without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
12 Hearing-Disabled Drivers Seek Interstate Exemptions
The FMCSA received exemption applications from 12 hard-of-hearing or deaf individuals asking to be allowed to drive commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the hearing requirement in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(11). If granted, these exemptions would enable those 12 named individuals to operate CMVs across state lines. The public may submit comments on the applications until January 20, 2026.
Exemptions Granted for Two-Year Periods
FMCSA grants medical exemptions from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver's medical certification. If an exemption is granted to an applicant, the notice will identify the effective period, terms, and conditions, and the exemption may be renewed.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-23476, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 21 hard of hearing or deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines despite the usual hearing rules. These renewals keep things rolling smoothly without extra costs or delays. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by January 20, 2026!
Next: 2025-23478, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is considering special permission for 52 people with epilepsy or seizure disorders to drive big trucks across state lines. If approved, these folks—who take medicine and have controlled seizures—could get back behind the wheel, helping them work and earn money. You’ve got until January 20, 2026, to share your thoughts on this important change!