Feds Let Seizure-Prone Drivers Steer Massive Trucks on Highways
Published Date: 9/9/2026
Notice
Summary
FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for five individuals from the requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) that interstate commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers have "no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition which is likely to cause loss of consciousness or any loss of ability to control a CMV." The exemptions enable these individuals who have had one or more seizures and are taking anti-seizure medication to continue to operate CMVs in interstate commerce.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Five Drivers Granted 2-Year Exemptions
FMCSA renewed 2-year exemptions allowing five named drivers with a history of seizures to operate interstate commercial motor vehicles from February 19, 2026 through February 19, 2028. The five drivers named are Daniel Bretz (PA), Gary Gress (PA), Ryan Moore (NC), Cory Wagner (IL), and Randy Wentz (PA).
Exemptions Revocable and 2-Year Duration
Each exemption is issued for a 2-year period (to correspond with the medical certificate) and will be revoked if the driver fails to comply with the exemption terms, if the exemption lowers safety, or if continuation would be inconsistent with Title 49 goals. The current exemptions run from February 19, 2026 to February 19, 2028.
Exemption Compliance Requirements Imposed
Drivers granted these exemptions must remain seizure-free, maintain stable treatment, and report a seizure to FMCSA within 24 hours. They must also provide annual treating-physician reports, undergo an annual medical exam by a certified medical examiner, supply a copy of medical certification to their employer (or keep it if self-employed), and carry the exemption when driving.
Crash and Citation Reporting Deadlines
Exempt drivers must report to FMCSA the date, time, and location of any crashes (as defined in 49 CFR 390.5T) within 7 days and must report any citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses under 49 CFR parts 383 and 391 within 7 days. They must also submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver's Licensing Agency.
State Laws Preempted During Exemption
While each exemption is in effect (February 19, 2026 to February 19, 2028), no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption with respect to a person operating under it. The exemption remains valid for 2 years unless revoked earlier.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-08144, Administrative Rulemaking, Guidance, and Enforcement Procedures
The Department of Transportation is bringing back and improving its rules for making new policies, giving guidance, and enforcing laws. This affects anyone involved in transportation regulations, making the process clearer and more consistent. These changes kick in on May 27, 2026, aiming to save time and avoid confusion without adding extra costs.
2026-20734, Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation; Application for Exemption From Aurora Operations, Inc (USDOT #341156)
The FMCSA just gave Aurora Operations, Inc. a 5-year green light to use special cab-mounted warning lights instead of the usual ones on their Level 4 self-driving trucks. This change affects Aurora and similar companies running automated commercial vehicles, starting October 7, 2026, and aims to keep safety just as strong or even better. No extra costs for carriers, just smarter, safer tech on the road!
2026-20649, Qualification of Drivers; Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance; Application for Exemption
The FMCSA is giving Alaska drivers with a commercial learner’s permit or license a one-year pass to use a paper medical certificate for up to 60 days, since Alaska hasn’t switched to the new electronic system yet. Drivers in all other states must stop using paper proof starting October 12, 2026. This temporary change helps Alaska drivers and their employers stay compliant without extra costs or hassle for the next year.
2026-20524, Agency Information Collection Activities; New Information Collection: Hours of Service of Drivers; Pilot Program To Allow Commercial Drivers To Split Sleeper Berth Time
The FMCSA is launching a pilot program to see if truck drivers can split their required rest time in the sleeper berth to improve their work-life balance without risking safety. About 256 drivers will join this study, which could lead to more flexible driving rules. Comments on this plan are open until December 7, 2026, and the results might change how drivers manage their hours, possibly saving time and boosting safety.
2026-20476, Agency Information Collection Activities; New Information Collection: Hours of Service of Drivers: Pilot Program To Allow Commercial Drivers To Pause Their 14-Hour Driving Window
The FMCSA is launching a pilot program letting truck drivers pause their 14-hour driving window for up to 3 hours at cargo stops to see if it improves their work-life balance without hurting safety. About 256 drivers will join this study, helping the agency gather data on driver fatigue and performance. Comments on this plan are open until December 7, 2026, so the public can weigh in before it moves forward.
2026-20325, Clarification to the Applicability of Emergency Exemptions; Response to Petitions for Reconsideration
The FMCSA is extending emergency relief from 14 days to 30 days after a state or FMCSA declares a regional emergency. This change helps truck drivers and companies get more time to respond during emergencies without extra paperwork. The new rule kicks in on October 5, 2026, and anyone wanting to challenge it must act by November 4, 2026.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-18311, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 12 truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial vehicles across state lines while on medication. These exemptions started on January 30, 2026, and last until January 30, 2028. This means qualified drivers can keep working without worrying about losing their jobs, keeping roads safe and jobs steady.
Next: 2026-18315, Hydrographic Services Review Panel Meeting, September 28, and 29, 2026
NOAA will hold an in-person Hydrographic Services Review Panel (HSRP) Federal Advisory Committee public meeting on September 28, and 29, 2026, in Arlington, VA. NOAA will accept public comments in advance and during the public meeting.