18 Deaf Haulers Back on Road: FMCSA Ignores Ear Rules Again
Published Date: 2/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 18 hard of hearing or deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines despite the usual hearing rules. This means these drivers can continue working without interruption, helping keep goods moving nationwide. These renewals have specific start and end dates, but no new fees or costs are involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
18 Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Drivers Kept Working
FMCSA renewed exemptions that allow 18 hard of hearing or deaf individuals to continue operating interstate commercial motor vehicles. One exemption is effective July 1, 2025 and expires July 1, 2027; the other 17 are effective July 30, 2025 and expire July 30, 2027.
Ongoing Driver Reporting and Record Rules
Each exempt driver must report any crash within 7 days and report citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days. Drivers must also submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency, carry a copy of the exemption when driving, and meet all commercial driver's license testing requirements.
Ban on Operating Passenger Motorcoaches
Drivers granted these hearing exemptions are prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce while the exemption is in effect. The prohibition is a stated condition of the exemption.
Federal Preemption While Exemptions Active
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption with respect to a person operating under it. This prevents state-level rules from blocking these drivers during the exemption period.
No New Fees or Costs for Renewals
FMCSA states these renewals have specific start and end dates but involve no new fees or costs for the individuals whose exemptions were renewed. The renewals are administrative decisions to extend existing exemptions for two years.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2026-03356 — Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 11 hard of hearing or deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. This means these drivers can continue working without having to meet the usual hearing rules. The renewed exemptions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on those to stay legal and on the road.
Next: 2026-03358 — Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA has renewed special permissions for 15 hard of hearing and deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines despite not meeting the usual hearing rules. These renewals keep things rolling safely without extra costs or delays. The exemptions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on their timelines.