18 Epileptics Want to Haul Freight in Giant Trucks—Comment Now
Published Date: 9/9/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is considering requests from 18 people with epilepsy or seizure disorders who want to drive commercial trucks across state lines. If approved, these drivers—who take medication and have had seizures—could legally operate big rigs again. You’ve got until October 9, 2026, to share your thoughts, and this could open new job opportunities for folks with these conditions.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Epilepsy Exemptions Could Restore Driving Rights
The FMCSA announced it received applications from 18 individuals with epilepsy or seizure disorders seeking exemptions from the rule that bars people with a clinical diagnosis of epilepsy from driving commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. If the exemptions are granted, those applicants would be allowed to operate CMVs in interstate commerce despite the existing prohibition; public comments are due by October 9, 2026.
Grants Usually Last Two Years
FMCSA grants medical exemptions from the seizure/disqualification rule for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver's medical certification, and exemptions may be renewed. That means if an applicant receives an exemption it would typically remain in effect for two years before renewal is considered.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-18307, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for five truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial trucks across state lines while on medication. These exemptions started on March 15, 2026, and last until March 15, 2028. This means qualified drivers can keep earning a living without worrying about losing their licenses due to their medical condition.
Next: 2026-18310, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for 12 individuals from the hearing requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for interstate commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. The exemptions enable these hard of hearing and deaf individuals to continue to operate CMVs in interstate commerce.