I've been examining commercial drivers for over 40 years, and one thing I've learned is that regulatory changes — even the ones that seem like paperwork housekeeping — can quietly affect your ability to drive. This month's Federal Register brought two items worth your attention: a renewal of the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse reporting requirements and a new HOS exemption application. Let me break both down in plain English.
Clearinghouse Renewal: The System That Can Ground You Is Sticking Around
What Changed
On August 4, 2026, FMCSA published a notice announcing it plans to renew its Information Collection Request (ICR) for the Commercial Driver's License Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse with the Office of Management and Budget. In plain terms: the Clearinghouse isn't going anywhere. FMCSA is formally committing to keep the querying and reporting system running.
Why It Matters for You
The Clearinghouse has been operating since January 6, 2020, and it tracks every positive drug or alcohol test result tied to your CDL or CLP. Employers are required to query it before hiring you and annually after that. If you have a violation on record and haven't completed the return-to-duty (RTD) process — including evaluation by a Substance Abuse Professional and a negative return-to-duty test — you cannot legally drive a commercial motor vehicle. This renewal notice is a signal that FMCSA is doubling down on enforcement of those requirements, not relaxing them.
What You Should Do Now
- Know your Clearinghouse status. You can create a driver account at the FMCSA Clearinghouse and request your own record. I strongly encourage every CDL holder to do this at least once a year.
- If you have a violation, don't wait. The RTD process takes time. Every day you delay is a day your driving eligibility is at risk.
- Disclose honestly at your DOT physical. I ask about medications and history at every exam, including any controlled-substance use, and I'd rather help you navigate that than have you caught off guard. Clearinghouse status is handled separately, by your employer and your state licensing agency.
For a deeper dive into how the Clearinghouse works day to day, read my post on the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for CDL drivers.
HOS Exemption Request: A Fireworks Carrier Wants to Stretch the 14-Hour Rule
What Changed
On July 30, 2026, FMCSA published a notice that Precision Fireworks LLC has applied for an exemption from the 14-hour on-duty window rule — the rule that says once you come on duty, you have a 14-hour clock running before you must stop driving, regardless of how much of that time you actually spent behind the wheel. You can read the full notice here. FMCSA has not granted or denied this request yet — they are required by law simply to publish it and invite public comment.
Why It Matters for You
This exemption applies only to Precision Fireworks LLC at this stage, so it won't directly change anything for the vast majority of CDL holders. That said, I think it's worth paying attention to HOS exemption trends for two reasons. First, exemptions like this can set precedent for similar applications down the road. Second, it's a good reminder that the 14-hour rule is one of the most commonly misunderstood — and most commonly violated — regulations out there.
The 14-hour clock is not the same as your 11-hour driving limit. Even if you only drove 3 hours, if 14 hours have passed since you came on duty, you're done for that shift. Violating HOS rules can cost you your CDL.
What You Should Do Now
- If you drive for a specialized carrier — seasonal, fireworks, agricultural, or otherwise — stay informed about whether your employer has any active exemptions and what conditions apply.
- Review your HOS logs regularly. Keeping them accurate and current is the best preparation for a roadside inspection.
- Nothing to do right now if you drive for a standard carrier — but bookmark this and check back. FMCSA will publish a follow-up when they make a decision on this application.
How These Changes Affect Your Exam at OneCare CDL
The Clearinghouse renewal is the more immediately relevant item for the drivers I examine. When you come in for your DOT physical at OneCare CDL, I review your health history, including any controlled-substance use under 49 CFR 391.41(b)(12). Clearinghouse status is a separate matter for your employer and your state licensing agency, and an unresolved violation keeps a driver off safety-sensitive work until the return-to-duty process is complete. I'd rather have that conversation in the exam room than have you find out at a weigh station.
Ready to schedule your CDL physical or just have questions? Book your appointment online at our booking page or reach us at (386) 226-0011. We're located at 755 Westmoreland Rd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. You can also visit our contact page to send us a message.
Stay safe out there — and stay legal.
— Dr. David Jacobsen, DC, FMCSA-Certified Medical Examiner, OneCare CDL
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