The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has extended the automatic exemption period for regional emergencies from 14 to 30 days, giving qualifying trucking operations more time to assist with disaster response before an extension is needed.

The change was announced in a final rule published October 5. It applies to regional emergencies declared by a governor, a governor’s authorized representative or FMCSA.

FMCSA Changes Regional Emergency Exemption Rules

Under the previous regulations, automatic relief lasted 14 days, even when emergency response efforts continued beyond that period. States seeking additional time had to request an extension, which FMCSA then had to review and process.

The agency said the 30-day period would cut down on those requests and give states more control over their disaster response efforts. The revision also recognizes that emergency conditions may require transportation assistance beyond the first two weeks.

The change affects the length of the exemption, not which trucking operations qualify. Drivers and carriers must still meet the requirements for emergency relief, and the declaration does not suspend every federal motor carrier regulation.

The Federal Register notice contains the complete regulatory language.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team provides news, industry updates and original content focused on professional truck drivers across the United States. Our coverage helps readers stay informed about regulations, transportation developments and issues affecting the trucking industry.

Last Updated: October 13, 2026

Source: Truckers News