Truckers Urge FMCSA for More Control Over Hours-of-Service Rules

Truck drivers could see greater flexibility in federal hours-of-service regulations as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration evaluates two pilot programs launched in September 2025. The core hours-of-service requirements remain unchanged, but the agency says the pilots could lead to broader changes if the results support them.

OOIDA Supports Greater Driver Control

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association has long supported additional flexibility in hours-of-service rules, provided drivers—not motor carriers—control how the flexibility is used.

“For years, our members have told lawmakers and FMCSA that existing hours-of-service rules are not sensible for today’s trucking industry,” OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh said.

The association has previously petitioned FMCSA and protested practices it says allow brokers or carriers to limit drivers’ access to records. According to OOIDA, some brokers require waivers or direct truckers to appear at a physical office to review records.

FMCSA Evaluating Pilot Programs

FMCSA launched two hours-of-service pilot programs in September 2025 as part of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s “Pro Trucker Package.” The agency is expected to review the data gathered through the pilots before deciding whether additional regulatory changes are warranted.

The pilots could significantly affect how existing hours-of-service rules are applied, but no permanent changes have been announced. The current federal requirements remain in effect while the agency evaluates the programs.

Broader FMCSA Safety Priorities

FMCSA also has said it is working to improve its safety measurement system and strengthen oversight of new and existing motor carriers. Dowling, who became the agency’s chief safety officer in August, said FMCSA is taking a more comprehensive approach to identifying unsafe carriers and preventing fraud before companies enter the industry.

The agency’s primary mission is to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities involving large trucks and buses. Any changes to hours-of-service requirements will be considered alongside that safety mandate.

OOIDA has emphasized that flexibility should not come at the expense of transparency or driver independence. The group’s position is that truckers must retain control over when and how any expanded hours-of-service options are used.