The trucking industry is on the brink of significant transformation as we approach 2025, with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) unveiling a series of impactful changes designed to enhance safety and streamline regulations. From the elimination of Motor Carrier (MC) numbers to the integration of advanced technology in safety systems, these updates will reshape how motor carriers operate. As we prepare for these new regulations, it’s crucial for industry stakeholders to stay informed and adapt proactively. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key changes set to take effect, their implications for trucking operations, and what drivers and carriers can do to prepare for a safer and more efficient future on the roads.

In 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) plans to implement several important changes and updates that will affect the trucking industry:

In this issue:

• Drug and Alcohol Testing.
• Safety Regulations and Technology Implementations.
• CVSA Schedules Operation Safe Driver Week for July 13-19.
• International Road-check 2025 is May 13-15.
• Registration is now open online for the 2025 Idealease/NPTC Spring Safety Seminar!

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New Registration System

Elimination of MC Numbers

• Starting on October 1, 2025, the FMCSA will discontinue the use of Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. Instead, USDOT numbers will serve as the sole identifier for motor carriers.

Streamlined Identification

• Operating authority registrants will have a suffix added to their USDOT number to indicate the type of authority granted, removing the need for separate MC or FF Docket Numbers.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

Potential Reduction in Random Drug Testing Rate

If positive drug tests remain below 1% for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023), the FMCSA may lower the random drug testing rate from 50% to 25% in 2025.

Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

Drivers designated as prohibited in the Clearinghouse will face the loss or denial of their state-issued commercial driving privileges. To regain these privileges, they must go through the FMCSA's return-to-duty process, which includes education, treatment, and a return-to-duty test.

Oral Fluid Samples for Drug Testing

As of May 2, 2023, the DOT has allowed the use of oral fluid samples (saliva) for drug testing in all transportation sectors. This method is deemed as reliable as urine testing but requires direct observation during collection. Implementation awaits certification of at least two labs for this testing.

Hair Samples for Drug Testing

The FMCSA rejected a request to use hair samples instead of urine for DOT-regulated drug tests on December 23, 2022. Although hair testing may be more accurate, the exemption was denied due to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) not finalizing its guidelines for this testing method.

Safety Regulations and Technology Implementation

Speed Limiter Mandate

On May 4, 2023, the FMCSA proposed rules for speed-limiting devices on commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) over 26,001 pounds. These vehicles with electronic engine control units (ECUs) must adhere to a specified speed limit throughout their operational life. A final decision is anticipated by May 2025, likely setting the regulated speed between 65 and 70 mph.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Rulemaking

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has established a standard requiring AEB systems—including pedestrian AEB—on all passenger vehicles and light trucks by September 2029. The FMCSA will also propose standards, maintenance requirements, and testing procedures for AEB systems on heavy trucks.

Automated Driving Systems (ADS) Rulemaking

The FMCSA aims to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the second quarter of 2024 to update safety regulations for the safe use of ADS-equipped CMVs on public roads. This will include guidelines for CMV operations and distinguish between human drivers and ADS technology.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Requirements

The ELD compliance requirement for engines manufactured before 2000 has been pushed back to June 2025.

Other Important Updates

DOT Physical Regulations

Drivers are required to have at least 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without corrective lenses) and to hear a forced whisper from five feet away, using their better ear, with or without a hearing aid.

Civil Penalty Adjustments

The FMCSA has finalized regulations to adjust civil penalties for violations of certain DOT regulations in 2025.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Correction

The FMCSA has stated that it will not enforce compliance with certain final rules.

Safety Fitness Determination Rulemaking

In August 2023, the FMCSA issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking inviting feedback on improving the data and resources used to identify and remove unfit motor carriers. The agency is looking into optimizing safety data usage (including inspection data), potential changes to the current three-tier safety fitness rating system, and updates to the regulations in its safety fitness methodology. A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is anticipated in June 2025.

CVSA Schedules Operation Safe Driver Week for July 13-19

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has planned Operation Safe Driver Week for July 13-19, 2025. This initiative aims to improve driving behaviors among both passenger vehicle and commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers through a mix of education, traffic enforcement, and engagement with law enforcement personnel. This year's focus will be on tractor protection systems and the possession of alcohol and controlled substances, with the goal of reducing roadway crashes by promoting safer driving practices and a culture of responsibility behind the wheel. Law enforcement agencies will be vigilant in monitoring and enforcing traffic laws, targeting unsafe driving behaviors that lead to accidents and collisions.