Feds Let Epileptic Drivers Haul Trucks Interstate Despite Seizure History
Published Date: 9/10/2026
Notice
Summary
FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for nine 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
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Nine Drivers Allowed to Keep Driving
FMCSA renewed exemptions for nine named interstate commercial drivers so they may continue operating commercial motor vehicles despite a history of seizures while taking anti-seizure medication. The exemptions are effective September 16, 2026 and expire September 16, 2028, and apply to the nine individuals listed in the notice.
Exempt Drivers Must Meet Reporting Rules
Each exempt driver must remain seizure-free, report any seizure or treatment change to FMCSA within 24 hours, provide annual physician reports and certified driving records, undergo annual medical exams, report crashes within 7 days, report disqualifying citations within 7 days, keep a copy of the exemption while driving, and meet all CDL testing requirements during the September 16, 2026–September 16, 2028 exemption period. These conditions apply for the 2-year renewal period.
Federal Exemption Preempts Conflicting State Laws
While each exemption is in effect (September 16, 2026 through September 16, 2028), no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with that exemption with respect to a person operating under the exemption. This preemption applies to the listed exempt drivers during the exemption period.
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