13 Epileptic Truck Drivers Renewed for Road Hauls
Published Date: 2/25/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA has renewed special permissions for 13 truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial vehicles across state lines while on anti-seizure meds. This means these drivers can continue working safely without losing their jobs. These exemptions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on their renewal timelines.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
13 Drivers Allowed to Keep Driving
FMCSA renewed individual exemptions for 13 interstate commercial drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders so they may continue operating commercial motor vehicles while taking anti-seizure medication. The exemptions are each valid for 2 years from their effective dates (groups effective July 5, 2025; July 12, 2025; and July 30, 2025).
Ongoing Medical Monitoring Requirements
If you hold one of these exemptions you must remain seizure-free and maintain stable treatment, submit annual treating-physician reports, and undergo an annual medical exam by a certified medical examiner. Failure to comply can lead to rescission of the 2-year exemption.
Reporting and Recordkeeping Duties for Crashes and Convictions
Exempt drivers must report any seizure within 24 hours, report crashes and report citations/convictions for disqualifying offenses to FMCSA within 7 days, and submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency. You must carry a copy of the exemption while driving for presentation to law enforcement.
Employers Must Keep Exemption/Certification Copies
Employers of these exempt drivers must retain a copy of the driver's annual medical certification in the driver's qualification file; self-employed drivers must keep a copy in their own qualification file. Each exemption is valid for 2 years unless rescinded earlier.
Federal Preemption While Exemptions Are Active
While a driver operates under one of these exemptions, no State may enforce laws or regulations that conflict with the exemption for that person. This protects the exempt driver's ability to operate in interstate commerce during the exemption period.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-03767, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
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.
Next: 2026-03769, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 11 drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders to keep driving commercial trucks across state lines while on medication. This means these drivers can continue working safely without losing their jobs. These exemptions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on their renewal timelines.