Truck drivers providing winter storm relief will continue to receive hours-of-service flexibility after the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration extended its Regional Emergency Declaration covering 40 states.
The declaration applies to drivers and motor carriers involved in qualifying emergency relief operations tied to winter weather. FMCSA said the extension “supports urgent winter emergency response while maintaining overall safety.” Relief only applies to specific emergency activities outlined in the declaration and does not cover routine freight movements.
The emergency declaration was first issued on January 23 and was originally scheduled to expire on February 6. With the extension, the waiver now remains in effect through February 20.
Hours-of-Service Rules Affected
Under the declaration, FMCSA is waiving Part 395.3 of the federal hours-of-service regulations. This section limits maximum driving time for property-carrying commercial motor vehicles.
Drivers and motor carriers providing direct assistance to winter emergency relief efforts may exceed normal driving limits while operating under the declaration. The waiver applies regardless of where a trip begins, as long as the movement supports emergency relief within a covered state.
Limits Drivers Should Keep in Mind
The emergency relief does not apply to normal freight or non-emergency operations. Once a driver finishes providing direct assistance, standard hours-of-service rules immediately resume.
Motor carriers remain responsible for monitoring fatigue and ensuring that drivers operate safely. Drivers should be prepared to return to full compliance as soon as emergency work ends.
States Covered by the Declaration
FMCSA has published a full list of the 40 states included in the declaration, which can be viewed here:
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency-declarations
Drivers and carriers should review the state list and qualifying criteria carefully to confirm their operations are covered before operating under the exemption.
Why This Matters for Winter Operations
The extension gives drivers responding to winter storms added flexibility during a time when road conditions, delays, and demand can change quickly. For drivers hauling fuel, equipment, or supplies tied to storm recovery, the additional time can help keep critical deliveries moving without unnecessary shutdowns.
The declaration is scheduled to expire on February 20 unless FMCSA issues another extension.
Source: Commercial Carrier Journal
