Rear Impact Guards No Longer Need Pesky Certification Labels
Published Date: 2/19/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting March 23, 2026, motor carriers won’t have to worry about keeping certification labels on rear impact guards readable or even present. The rule removes the need for permanent labels proving the guards meet safety standards, cutting down on hassle without lowering safety. This change helps carriers save time and avoid problems with worn-off labels, with no extra costs or safety risks.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Carriers no longer need permanent labels
Starting March 23, 2026, motor carriers are no longer required by FMCSA to keep a permanent manufacturer certification label or marking on rear impact guards (49 CFR 393.86(a)(6) is rescinded). This removes the basis for citations during Federal and State inspections for missing or illegible certification labels and is intended to save carriers time and avoid problems with worn-off labels.
Safety standards at manufacture remain
The rule does not change NHTSA's Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) requirements that apply at the time of manufacture and sale (including FMVSS No. 223). FMCSA states the rescission of the permanent labeling requirement in the FMCSR does not remove the FMVSS labeling requirement nor reduce the safety benefits associated with that requirement.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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