Trucks Banned from Carrying Fiery Flares: Out with the Old Flame
Published Date: 2/19/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting March 23, 2026, commercial truck drivers won’t have to carry liquid-burning flares as part of their emergency gear because the FMCSA says these flares are outdated and rarely used. This change updates safety rules to keep things simple and modern without adding any new costs. If anyone wants to challenge this rule, they must do so by the same date.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Truckers no longer must carry liquid-burning flares
If you drive or operate a commercial motor vehicle, you no longer have to carry liquid-burning flares as part of your required emergency equipment starting March 23, 2026. FMCSA removed liquid-burning flares from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and says this change modernizes rules without adding new costs.
Small publishing update cost estimated
The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) estimated up to $20,000 in costs to update six publications that convey Federal motor carrier safety requirements as a result of this and two other rulemakings. FMCSA considers that up-to-$20,000 cost de minimis and expects updates can be incorporated during routine business updates.
Flame-producing signals still banned for certain hazmat vehicles
If you operate a commercial motor vehicle transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosives; a cargo tank motor vehicle used for Division 2.1 (flammable gas) or Class 3 (flammable liquid) materials whether loaded or empty; or a vehicle using compressed gas as motor fuel, you may not carry fusees or any other flame-produced signals. The amended rule keeps this restriction in place.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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