Should Drivers With Epilepsy Get Federal Trucking Exemptions?
Published Date: 5/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is considering special permission for 10 drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders to drive commercial trucks across state lines. If approved, these folks—who take seizure medicine and have had seizures before—could get back behind the wheel legally. You’ve got until June 29, 2026, to share your thoughts, so don’t miss out on having your say!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
10 Drivers Seek CMV Exemptions
FMCSA received exemption applications from 10 individuals who have epilepsy or seizure disorders and who take anti-seizure medication. If granted, these exemptions would enable those individuals to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce; the public may comment on the applications through June 29, 2026.
Medical Exemptions Last Two Years
FMCSA grants medical exemptions from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver's medical certification. If an exemption is granted to an applicant, the exemption would generally be issued for a 2-year term.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-10581, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 16 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 renewed exemptions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on their expiration to stay compliant.
Next: 2026-10583, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The government is considering letting 12 people with epilepsy or seizure disorders drive big trucks across state lines, even though current rules say they can’t. These folks take medicine to control their seizures and want a chance to work as commercial drivers. You have until June 29, 2026, to share your thoughts, and this could open new job opportunities without extra costs for taxpayers.