FMCSA Waives HOS Rules for Fuel Haulers

Fuel Haulers Get a Limited HOS Waiver

FMCSA has waived certain hours-of-service requirements for interstate gasoline and diesel haulers through Dec. 16, giving fuel carriers more flexibility as suppliers deal with disruptions and seasonal demand.

Transport Topics reported that FMCSA Administrator Derek Barrs issued the waiver Sept. 16, and that it took effect the same day. The agency cited global supply disruptions, expected increases in gasoline and diesel demand, and the need to limit impacts on fuel costs and availability for transportation providers, agricultural harvesting and the traveling public.

The Waiver Has Guardrails

The relief is limited. Drivers operating under it may not drive more than 16 hours in any 24-hour period, even if another exception or emergency declaration would otherwise apply.

Drivers also must carry a physical or digital copy of the waiver and present it to law enforcement if requested. If a driver tells a carrier they need immediate rest, the carrier must allow the driver to find a safe resting place and provide at least 10 consecutive off-duty hours before driving resumes.

When a driver shifts from fuel-hauling work under the waiver back to normal operations, the driver must take a 10-hour break once total time reaches 14 hours or more. Carriers or drivers under a current out-of-service order are not eligible until that order is rescinded in writing.

What It Means for Fleet Operators

The waiver does not remove the fuel-cost problem. Transport Topics noted API's view that diesel supply pressure is tied to reduced global refining capacity, even as U.S. refineries run at high utilization.

For fleets that depend on bulk fuel, jobsite fueling or tight route schedules, the practical signal is supply-chain planning. Fuel procurement, on-site storage, delivery windows and backup supplier coverage deserve another look while the waiver is active.