FMCSA June 2026: Epilepsy Exemptions & CDL Eligibility Updates for Drivers

I've been examining commercial drivers for over 40 years here in Daytona Beach, and one thing I've learned is that FMCSA regulatory notices can be genuinely confusing — especially when they touch on medical conditions that drivers worry about every time they walk into my office. This month's roundup covers two distinct topics: a wave of epilepsy and seizure disorder exemption activity, and a novel CDL eligibility question involving DACA recipients. Let me break down what's actually happening and what, if anything, you need to do.

Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders: FMCSA Is Very Active Right Now

What Changed

In late May 2026, FMCSA published six separate Federal Register notices all related to epilepsy and seizure disorders. Here's the plain-English summary of what those six notices actually say:

• 21 drivers had their exemptions renewed. Five drivers (one notice) and sixteen drivers (a second notice) who already held exemptions allowing them to drive CMVs despite a history of seizures had those exemptions officially renewed. They can continue operating in interstate commerce.
• 33 new applications are under review. Three separate notices announce that FMCSA received new exemption applications from 10, 12, and 11 individuals, respectively — 33 drivers total — who have a clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or a seizure disorder and want to drive CMVs interstate. These are applications, not approvals. FMCSA is accepting public comment before making a decision.

The underlying rule hasn't changed: federal regulations still prohibit interstate CMV drivers from having "an established medical history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition likely to cause loss of consciousness or loss of vehicle control." What these notices reflect is the exemption process working exactly as it's supposed to — case by case, with safety data and public input.

Federal Register sources:

• Renewals: 2026-10580 | 2026-10581
• New applications: 2026-10582 | 2026-10583 | 2026-10584

Why It Matters for CDL Drivers

If you have a history of seizures — or you're on anti-seizure medication — this activity is directly relevant to your career. It confirms that a seizure history is not automatically a career-ending diagnosis. FMCSA does have a formal pathway for drivers who are well-controlled on medication and can demonstrate a strong safety record. That said, this is not a simple or quick process. Each exemption is evaluated individually, and most applicants are dealing with years of documented seizure-free history.

I want to be honest with you: at your DOT physical, I am required to follow the FMCSRs as written. If you have a current diagnosis of epilepsy or a seizure condition, I cannot issue a medical certificate without a valid FMCSA exemption in hand. The exemption process happens through FMCSA — not through my office.

What You Should Do Now

• If you have a seizure history and no exemption: Talk to your neurologist about your treatment stability and seizure-free record, then research the FMCSA exemption application process directly at fmcsa.dot.gov. You'll need solid medical documentation.
• If you already hold an exemption: Make sure it's current and bring it to every DOT physical. Don't assume I have it on file.
• If you're on anti-seizure medication for another reason (such as a pain condition or mood disorder): Be upfront with me at your exam. The medication itself will raise questions I'm required to ask — and honest answers help us find a path forward together.

For a broader look at how medical conditions are evaluated, see my guide on what to expect at your CDL physical exam.

CDL Eligibility for DACA Recipients: A Notice, Not a Decision

What Changed

On June 2, 2026, FMCSA published a notice about an exemption application from Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis, requesting that DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients who hold valid Employment Authorization Documents be permitted to obtain a Class B passenger-vehicle CDL under the same conditions as other lawfully work-authorized individuals. Ms. Sanchez Vilchis is asking for an immediate, temporary exemption while the broader question is considered.

Important: FMCSA publishing this notice is legally required — it does not mean they intend to grant it. The agency is gathering public comments before making any decision.

Federal Register source: 2026-11016

Why It Matters for CDL Drivers

This one is more about the licensing side than the medical side, but I'm watching it closely because it touches on who qualifies to hold a CDL in the first place. Current federal rules tie CDL eligibility to lawful permanent residency or citizenship status in ways that have created gray areas for work-authorized individuals. If FMCSA grants this exemption, it could open Class B licensing to a group of drivers currently blocked from the profession despite being legally authorized to work.

What You Should Do Now

If this situation applies to you or someone you know, the best step right now is to watch the Federal Register for FMCSA's final decision. There is nothing actionable yet — this is still in the comment and review phase. If you have questions about your eligibility for a DOT physical specifically, contact us and I'm happy to talk through what I can and can't evaluate on my end.

Book Your Next DOT Physical at OneCare CDL

Whether you're coming in for a routine renewal, managing a complex medical history, or just trying to stay ahead of the rules — I'm here to help you navigate it. OneCare CDL is appointment-based, so the easiest way to get in is to book online or call us at (386) 226-0011. We're located at 755 Westmoreland Rd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114.

Got questions before your appointment? Reach out at our contact page. I'd rather answer your questions upfront than have you walk in uncertain.