Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
Published Date: 2/3/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is letting 35 drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, who take medication, legally drive commercial trucks across state lines. This change started on June 9, 2025, and lasts until June 9, 2027, giving these drivers a chance to work without breaking the rules. It’s a big win for qualified drivers who’ve been playing by the rules and want to keep on trucking safely!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
35 Drivers Allowed To Drive Interstate
FMCSA exempted 35 named drivers who take anti-seizure medication from the FMCSR epilepsy prohibition so they may operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce from June 9, 2025 through June 9, 2027. The agency found each applicant seizure-free for between 3 and 34 years and on a stable treatment regimen for the last 2 years.
State Laws Preempted For Exempted Drivers
While an exemption is in effect (June 9, 2025 to June 9, 2027), no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with the exemption with respect to a person operating under it. This protects the exempted drivers from state-level rules that would otherwise bar interstate driving.
Exemptions Can Be Revoked Early
Each 2-year exemption may be revoked earlier if the driver fails to comply with terms, if the exemption leads to a lower level of safety than before, or if continuation would conflict with the goals of applicable statutes. FMCSA will revoke an exemption in those circumstances.
Required Medical Reports and Exams
Each exempted driver must remain seizure-free, maintain stable treatment, submit annual physician reports to FMCSA, undergo an annual medical exam by a certified medical examiner, and provide the medical certification to their employer or keep it if self-employed. They must also keep a copy of the exemption while driving.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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The FMCSA is giving 11 drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders a green light to drive commercial trucks across state lines while on medication. These special exemptions started on August 30, 2025, and last until August 30, 2027, helping qualified folks keep their wheels turning without breaking the bank. This change opens doors for drivers who play by the rules and manage their condition safely.