Fuel Truck Drivers Allowed to Work Longer Hours Under Temporary Federal Waiver
Fuel Truck Drivers Allowed to Work Longer Hours Under Temporary Federal Waiver
WASHINGTON — Truck drivers hauling gasoline and diesel fuel will temporarily be allowed to spend more time behind the wheel under a new federal waiver aimed at keeping fuel supplies moving amid potential supply disruptions.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced September 16 that it is temporarily waiving certain federal hours-of-service restrictions for interstate carriers transporting gasoline and diesel. The waiver took effect immediately and is scheduled to remain in place through December 16, 2026.
Under the waiver, qualifying drivers can drive for up to 16 hours in a 24-hour period, exceeding the normal federal limit for property-carrying commercial drivers. The additional flexibility is intended to help fuel companies respond to increased demand and potential disruptions in fuel distribution.
The waiver does not eliminate rest requirements. Drivers must take at least six consecutive hours in a sleeper berth during each 24-hour period, or eight consecutive hours off duty when a sleeper berth is unavailable. Drivers who feel they need immediate rest must also be allowed to stop and take at least 10 consecutive hours off duty before returning to the road.
The federal agency said the measure is designed to support the distribution of gasoline and diesel to transportation providers, agricultural operations and the traveling public. Officials cited anticipated increases in fuel demand and global supply disruptions as reasons for providing temporary flexibility.
Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said the change is intended to prevent disruptions in fuel deliveries and reduce pressure on the broader supply chain. The Transportation Department described the measure as a temporary way to give fuel haulers greater operational flexibility while maintaining safety requirements.
The waiver is not available to every trucking operation. Carriers with certain safety violations and drivers or carriers subject to an active out-of-service order are excluded. Drivers must also maintain the appropriate commercial driver's license and endorsements and carry a copy of the waiver while operating under its provisions.
The temporary change comes as fuel transportation remains a critical part of the U.S. supply chain. Diesel is widely used to power freight trucks and agricultural equipment, meaning interruptions in fuel distribution can have effects beyond gas stations and fuel terminals.
The waiver is scheduled to expire on December 16 unless the federal government takes further action.