Deaf Drivers Cleared to Steer Big Rigs Across States
Published Date: 3/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 12 hard of hearing or deaf truck drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines until March 4, 2028. This means these drivers can continue working without having to meet the usual hearing rules. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until April 10, 2026, to speak up!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Exemptions renewed for 12 drivers
If you are one of the 12 named hard-of-hearing or deaf interstate commercial drivers, FMCSA renewed your exemption from the hearing standard so you can keep operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. The exemptions became applicable on March 4, 2026 and expire on March 4, 2028.
Reporting and operational conditions
If you hold one of these exemptions, you must report any crashes within 7 days, report citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days, submit annual certified driving records from your State Driver's Licensing Agency, carry a copy of the exemption while driving, and meet all commercial driver's license testing requirements. You are also prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce while the exemption is in effect (March 4, 2026 to March 4, 2028), and failure to comply can lead to rescission.
Federal preemption of conflicting state laws
While an exemption is in effect (March 4, 2026 to March 4, 2028), no State may enforce a law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption with respect to a person operating under the exemption. This protects exempt drivers from state-level enforcement that would otherwise bar their interstate operation.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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