FMCSA Proposes Rule Changes for the Trucking Industry

FMCSA Proposes New Rule Changes for Trucking Industry

On May 30, 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will publish several proposed changes to trucking regulations. These notices aim to reduce confusion, cut paperwork, and remove outdated rules. Each proposal will be open for public comment for 60 days.

These changes affect several parts of the trucking industry, from daily inspections to CDL requirements. Here’s what each proposal includes and why it matters.

Tire Load Marking Rule May Be Removed

FMCSA wants to clear up confusion about tire labeling. The agency says tires used on commercial trucks do not need to show load restriction markings on the sidewall. This proposed change does not lower safety standards. Instead, it would make the language in the rules match what tire makers are already doing.

CDL Drivers May No Longer Need to Self-Report Violations

CDL drivers are currently required to report traffic tickets to their home state. But FMCSA says that rule is no longer needed. Since 2024, all states have shared this violation information electronically. The agency wants to remove the self-reporting rule because it duplicates what states already do.

More Military Personnel Could Get CDL Exemptions

FMCSA also wants to expand CDL exemptions for certain military workers. Under the new proposal, dual-status military technicians would qualify for the same exemption given to active-duty military drivers. These technicians serve both as federal workers and National Guard or Reserve members. The change follows a petition from James D. Welch, who argued that these workers receive the same training. The agency agreed and said the rule would help military personnel move into civilian driving jobs.

FMCSA Proposes Removal of In-Vehicle ELD Manual Rule

As of now, trucks must have a printed operator’s manual for their electronic logging device (ELD). The agency wants to end that rule. ELD vendors already send their manuals to FMCSA when they register their devices. Drivers are also required to know how their ELD works. FMCSA says, “There is no readily apparent benefit to continuing to require that the users’ manual be in the CMV.”

FMCSA Proposes Changes to Railroad Crossing Rules

Truck drivers carrying passengers or hazardous materials must currently stop at all railroad crossings. FMCSA now wants to allow these drivers to continue without stopping if the crossing system is not activated. That means if the lights aren’t flashing or the gate isn’t down, drivers would not need to stop. FMCSA says this could improve traffic flow without affecting safety.

States May Not Need Roadside Inspection Reports Returned

Right now, carriers must return Driver Vehicle Examination Reports (DVERs) to the state that did the inspection. FMCSA says that not all states want or need these forms returned. Under the new proposal, drivers and carriers would only return reports to states that ask for them. This change is based on a petition from the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).

Daily Inspections Can Be Filed Electronically

FMCSA wants to make it clear that Daily Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) can be done electronically. Many carriers already use electronic systems, but the current rules don’t clearly say this is allowed. The new proposal adds specific language to support digital DVIRs. This change follows a comment from the National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC).

Medical Treatment Definition May Be Updated for Crash Reports

Crash reporting rules use the term “medical treatment away from the scene.” FMCSA wants to change the definition of that term. The new wording would match the agency’s current guidance. This would help carriers and enforcement officers better understand what needs to be reported after a crash.

FMCSA “Water Carrier” References to Be Removed

Some old trucking rules still mention “water carriers.” But FMCSA does not regulate those carriers anymore unless they also run trucks. This proposed change would remove all mentions of water carriers from the agency’s regulations. The agency says the language is outdated and no longer applies to its work.

FMCSA says these changes are part of a larger effort to modernize the rules and remove unnecessary steps. Several of the changes respond to petitions and public feedback. Others follow updated safety guidance or recent technology improvements.

All nine proposals will appear in the Federal Register on May 30, 2025. After that, the public will have 60 days to submit comments at regulations.gov. The agency says it will review all input before making final decisions.

These changes could reduce paperwork, improve clarity, and help both drivers and carriers stay focused on safe operations.