Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
Published Date: 2/3/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA has renewed special permissions for 17 drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial trucks across state lines while on medication. This means these drivers can continue working safely without breaking the rules, with their exemptions valid until the listed expiration dates. It’s a win for drivers managing health challenges and the businesses that rely on them, with no new costs or delays announced.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
17 Drivers Granted 2‑Year Exemptions
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing 17 named drivers who have had seizures and are on anti‑seizure medication to operate interstate commercial motor vehicles. Fifteen drivers’ exemptions are effective April 2, 2025 and expire April 2, 2027; Michael Littleton’s exemption is effective April 26, 2025 and expires April 26, 2027; Bradley Hollister’s exemption is effective April 30, 2025 and expires April 30, 2027.
Exemptions Subject to Revocation Conditions
FMCSA will revoke an exemption if the driver fails to comply with its terms, if the exemption results in a lower level of safety than before it was granted, or if continuation would be inconsistent with the goals of 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b).
Medical and Reporting Conditions Imposed
Each exempted driver must remain seizure‑free, maintain stable treatment, report any seizure to FMCSA within 24 hours, submit annual physician reports attesting to stability, undergo an annual medical exam by a certified medical examiner, provide annual certified driving records, and report crashes or disqualifying citations within 7 days. The exemptions are issued for 2‑year periods tied to the medical certificate.
Federal Preemption During Exemption Period
While an individual’s FMCSA exemption is in effect, no State may enforce a law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption with respect to that driver. This protection lasts for the exemption period specified for each driver.
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