NOTE:  This guidance revises the guidance published at 80 FR 22790 (April 23, 2015) and 83 FR 47486 (September 19, 2018) (FMCSA-FR-80FR22790.2015.04.23 and FMCSA-FR-83FR47486.2018.09.19, respectively), effective March 22, 2022. Please see revised guidance FMCSA-MED-391.41-Q3(2022-01-21).

FMCSA-FR-87FR3390(2022-01-21)

Federal Register Title and Cite

Qualifications of Drivers; Vision Standard, 87 FR 3390 (Jan. 21, 2022)

The Federal Register text can be found on the Federal Register website. To view the Federal Register text, use the link below.

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/01/21/2022-01021/qualifications-of-drivers-vision-standard

Federal Register Description/Summary

FMCSA amended its driver physical qualification standards in 49 CFR 391.41(b) to permit individuals who do not satisfy, with the worse eye, either the existing distant visual acuity standard with corrective lenses or the field of vision standard, or both, to be qualified to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. Prior to the final rule, such individuals were prohibited from driving commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce unless they obtained an exemption from FMCSA. The final rule revised guidance in the Medical Advisory Criteria in Appendix A to part 391 by removing and reserving paragraph II.J. relating to vision. Additionally, the rule revised guidance in Question 3 to 49 CFR 391.41 to reflect that FMCSA’s regulations no longer absolutely prohibit individuals who do not satisfy, with the worse eye, either the existing distant visual acuity standard with corrective lenses or the field of vision standard, or both, from driving commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce.

Contact Info: FMCSA Medical Programs Division, FMCSAMedical@dot.gov.
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Note: This guidance document does not have the force and effect of law and is not meant to bind the public in any way.  It is intended only to provide information and clarity regarding existing requirements under the law or agency policies.