Armored Trucks Keep Their Welded-Shut Cab Doors Under Federal Exemption
Published Date: 10/28/2026
Notice
Summary
Loomis Armored US, LLC got the green light to keep using their armored trucks with welded-shut cab doors and extra doors behind the cab. This exemption, effective from October 14, 2026, to October 13, 2031, means Loomis can keep rolling safely without changing these special vehicle features. Drivers, safety fans, and the armored transport world can breathe easy knowing this setup meets or beats safety standards.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Loomis allowed to keep welded cab doors
FMCSA renewed an exemption that lets Loomis Armored US, LLC operate armored vehicles with the original driver and passenger cab doors welded shut and two new high-security doors behind the cab. The exemption runs from October 14, 2026 through October 13, 2031 and applies only to Loomis vehicles.
Exemption applies only to Loomis
FMCSA explicitly limited the exemption to commercial motor vehicles operated by Loomis Armored US, LLC and stated it does not apply to any other armored vehicle operators. Other armored carriers may not rely on this exemption for welded cab doors.
States cannot enforce conflicting interstate rules
While the exemption is in effect (October 14, 2026 to October 13, 2031), no State may enforce a law or regulation applicable to interstate commerce that conflicts with this FMCSA exemption for a firm operating under it. States may, but are not required to, adopt the same exemption for intrastate operations.
Safety finding and vehicle features noted
FMCSA found the exemption is likely to achieve a level of safety equivalent to or greater than the standard because Loomis added two biometric-enabled rear doors, an emergency escape hatch, an inside-only override, and provided driver training. FMCSA reported no safety concerns since the original 5-year exemption granted in October 2021.
Exemption subject to terms, compliance, and revocation
The exemption requires Loomis to comply with all other FMCSRs (49 CFR parts 350-399) and may be revoked if Loomis fails to follow the exemption terms, if safety declines, or if continuation conflicts with Title 49 objectives. The exemption covers only the welding of cab doors and the addition of the two rear doors; no other vehicle changes are covered.
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