Deaf Truckers Get Green Light: FMCSA Renews Big Rig Exemptions
Published Date: 9/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 18 hard of hearing and deaf drivers, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines. These renewals keep the roads open for skilled drivers who don’t meet the usual hearing rules. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until October 28, 2026, to speak up—no extra costs or changes for drivers, just continued chances to drive!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
18 Drivers Allowed to Keep Driving Interstate
FMCSA renewed exemptions for 18 named hard-of-hearing or deaf individuals so they may continue to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce despite not meeting the hearing standard. Fifteen drivers' exemptions are effective July 11, 2026 and expire July 11, 2028; three drivers' exemptions are effective July 16, 2026 and expire July 16, 2028.
Prohibition on Driving Passenger Motorcoaches
Drivers granted these hearing exemptions are prohibited from operating a motorcoach or bus with passengers in interstate commerce while the exemption is in effect.
Reporting and Record Conditions Imposed
Each driver must: report any crashes to FMCSA within 7 days; report citations and convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days; submit annual certified driving records from their State Driver Licensing Agency; and carry a copy of the exemption while driving. Drivers must also meet all applicable commercial driver's license testing requirements.
Federal Exemption Preempts Conflicting State Rules
While these exemptions are in effect, no State may enforce a law or regulation that conflicts with an individual's exemption with respect to that person operating under the exemption.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-19808, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA is considering requests from nine hard of hearing or deaf drivers who want to be allowed to drive commercial trucks across state lines without meeting the usual hearing rules. If approved, these drivers can get exemptions to work interstate, opening new job opportunities. The public can share their thoughts by October 28, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
Next: 2026-19810, Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Hearing
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 20 hard of hearing or deaf drivers, letting them keep driving commercial trucks across state lines. These exemptions help qualified drivers stay on the road safely without meeting the usual hearing rules. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by October 28, 2026.