Epilepsy Patients May Soon Pilot 80,000-Pound Trucks
Published Date: 5/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is considering special permission for 11 truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders to drive commercial trucks across state lines. These drivers take medicine and want a chance to work despite current rules that usually say no. You’ve got until June 29, 2026, to share your thoughts, and this could open doors for more folks with similar health conditions to earn a living.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
11 Drivers Seek Interstate Exemptions
FMCSA has received exemption applications from 11 truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders. If granted, these 11 individuals would be allowed to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce despite a clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or a condition likely to cause loss of consciousness.
Exemptions Issued for Two Years
FMCSA grants medical exemptions from the FMCSRs for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver's medical certification. If any of the 11 applicants receive an exemption, that exemption would be effective for up to two years.
Granted Exemptions Can Be Renewed
FMCSA may renew an exemption after its initial term (the agency states exemptions may be renewed). Drivers who receive an exemption could seek renewal to continue operating CMVs beyond the initial 2-year period.
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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.
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