FMCSA Lets Epileptic Truckers Hit the Highways Again
Published Date: 2/25/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA has renewed special permissions for 11 truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial vehicles across state lines while on medication. This means qualified drivers who manage their condition safely can continue working without interruption. These renewals have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on their exemption timelines.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
11 Drivers Allowed To Keep Driving
FMCSA renewed medical exemptions for 11 named commercial drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders so they may continue operating interstate commercial motor vehicles while taking anti-seizure medication. Seven drivers' exemptions were effective October 4, 2025 and expire October 4, 2027; four drivers' exemptions were effective October 22, 2025 and expire October 22, 2027.
Driver Compliance Rules You Must Follow
Drivers granted these exemptions must remain seizure-free, maintain stable treatment, and report a seizure to FMCSA within 24 hours. They must also submit annual treating-physician reports, undergo an annual medical exam by a certified medical examiner, provide annual certified driving records, report any crashes within 7 days, and report any disqualifying citations or convictions to FMCSA within 7 days.
Federal Exemption Preempts Conflicting State Rules
While an FMCSA exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with the exemption with respect to the exempt driver. That means exempt drivers may not be subject to conflicting state prohibitions for the exemption period.
Exemptions Can Be Revoked For Specific Failures
Each exemption is valid for 2 years but can be rescinded earlier if a driver fails to comply with the terms, if the exemption leads to a lower level of safety, or if continuation is inconsistent with Title 49 chapter 313 or section 31136. FMCSA will revoke an exemption if any of those conditions occur.
Employer Recordkeeping Requirement
Employers must retain a copy of the driver's annual medical certification in the driver's qualification file; self-employed drivers must keep the copy in their own qualification file. Drivers must also carry a copy of the exemption while driving for presentation to law enforcement.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for six drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders to keep driving commercial trucks across state lines while on medication. These exemptions started on August 13, 2025, and last until August 13, 2027. This means qualified drivers can keep working without worrying about losing their licenses, keeping roads safe and jobs steady.