The Department of Transportation
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Exemption Program
The Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) implemented a two-year exemption program for individuals who do not meet the federal vision standards as stated under 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). This is a direct result of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) which was signed by the President of the United States on June 9, 1998.
As a subcontractor to Cherry Engineering Support Services, Inc. (CESSI), New Editions provides support for this program. The support involves an analysis of applications to the program and a preliminary determination as to whether or not an individual should be granted a Federal Vision Exemption. Upon issuance of an exemption, the individual’s driving record is monitored on a quarterly basis to ensure that the program maintains a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety that was exhibited before exemptions were granted.
The FMCSA will grant an exemption from the vision standard if the individual can present verifiable evidence that he or she has legally driven a commercial vehicle safely with the vision deficiency for at least three years. The experience must demonstrate the ability to drive safely under conditions similar to those encountered by interstate drivers, such as driving for lengthy periods of time, driving in both city and highway traffic, maneuvering around pedestrian traffic on crowded streets, and controlling a commercial motor vehicle in inclement weather under adverse road conditions.
As an aspect of program support, New Editions supported CESSI in developing a computerized tracking system. This system is used for tracking all applications through the review process and its information can also be used for the generation of all needed communications (exemptions, rejections, and letters) and the production of statistical reports. This system is maintained on a local area network (LAN) to which all members of the support team have access.
We also perform a variety of other activities in support of the exemption program. It prepares the Federal Register notices required by the legislation. It communicates drivers’ exemption status and other pertinent information to State Motor Vehicle Administrations.
