Trucking Law Updates in 2025: What Hazmat Truckers Need to Know

Trucking law changes and industry regulation shifts happen often, but 2025 is proving to be one of the busiest years in recent memory. Federal agencies are rolling out new rules, updating older ones, and reviewing proposals that will affect drivers at all levels.

2025 Is a Big Year for Trucking Regulations

For CDL drivers, especially those hauling hazardous materials, these changes are more than paperwork. They affect the cost of credentials, medical reporting, safety scores, and even job eligibility. 

Drivers can stay ahead and maintain a competitive edge with carriers by understanding these major regulatory shifts. Use this blog to brush up on the biggest compliance and safety considerations of 2025 and beyond. 

Lower Fees for TWIC and HME Credentials

Starting January 1, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration reduced the enrollment fee for the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) to $124. Similar fee cuts also applied to Hazardous Materials Endorsements (HME).

This is welcome news for hazmat drivers, especially tanker operators who need both. Lower fees reduce the out-of-pocket costs of staying qualified. Carriers with high turnover also benefit because onboarding costs go down.

That said, passing TSA’s security threat assessment is still required. For drivers considering a career change to hazmat, this makes entry into the field slightly more affordable.

International Hazmat Rules Take Effect

The compliance deadline for HM-215Q was April 10, 2025 (just 11 months after the ruling took effect). This  update to Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) aligns U.S. regulations with international codes such as the ICAO Technical Instructions, the IMDG Code, and the UN Model Regulations.

The changes involve new shipping names, packaging requirements, and updates to placards and documentation. Hazmat drivers, particularly those hauling loads through ports or across borders, must pay close attention. Even a small mistake on placards or paperwork could lead to costly penalties. The U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) began incorporating updates in 2023 and 2024.

Medical Certificates Move Online

FMCSA rolled out electronic reporting for Medical Examiner’s Certificates (MECs) in June 2025. Examiners must now upload results directly into the National Registry II system. Drivers can still use paper MECs for up to 15 days after issuance until October 12. After that, the process will be fully digital.

This change streamlines records, but it comes with risks. Hazmat drivers with conditions like epilepsy or seizure disorders need to be especially careful. If medical data isn’t uploaded correctly, it could delay or block HME renewals.

FMCSA Updates in 2025

FMCSA has more updates coming this year that directly affect drivers.

Drug and Alcohol Offenses

One major change involves the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. Starting in 2025, state licensing agencies must automatically downgrade CDLs for drivers flagged as “prohibited” in the Clearinghouse until they complete the return-to-duty process. For hazmat drivers, this can be career-ending if not addressed quickly, since you can’t hold an HME without an active CDL.

Phasing Out MC Numbers

Another update is the phase-out of Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. By late 2025, carriers will transition to using only USDOT numbers for identification. While this doesn’t directly affect day-to-day driving, it will show up on load boards, permits, and carrier paperwork. 

Simplified Regulatory Compliance

FMCSA also announced 18 proposed rule changes in mid-2025. These cover everything from revising accident reporting standards to easing paperwork requirements through electronic records. For hazmat drivers, proposals about electronic emergency-response information are especially important. If finalized, they could change what information you carry in the cab.

Enforcement Trending Down

Lastly, enforcement trends are shifting. Under the current administration, FMCSA has slowed down some enforcement actions. While this may mean fewer shutdowns for unsafe carriers, it also increases the risk of working with a company that cuts corners on safety. Doing research on potential employers has never been more important.

Tri-State offers the highest pay for hazmat drivers and never sacrifices compliance. Learn how to get top-of-the-line equipment and training as a driver for Tri-State hazmat – Apply today! 

Proposed Hazmat Deregulation Under Review

From July 1 through September 2, 2025, PHMSA opened the public comment period on 17 proposed changes to hazmat rules. These include:

• Redefining “aerosol” to match international standards.
• Allowing electronic emergency-response info instead of paper.
• Updating packaging rules for bulk shipments.

For hazmat drivers, these changes could simplify compliance, but they may also require new technology in the cab. Tanker drivers should pay close attention to these proposals, since many affect high-volume hazardous liquids and flammable gases.

Final decisions are expected in 2026. Drivers should look out for gradual changes in how loads are documented and handled.

English Proficiency Rules See Stronger Enforcement

As of July 2025, FMCSA has increased its enforcement of English proficiency requirements. Drivers must be able to read road signs, converse with officials, and understand safety instructions. Drivers who fail to comply will face an out-of-service (OOS) violation. 

Hazmat drivers often face added scrutiny in this area because of the higher safety risks. For non-native speakers, improving English isn’t just about passing inspections – it also opens up more job opportunities. Carriers are more likely to hire drivers who can confidently communicate with shippers, inspectors, and the public.

Speed Limiter Rule Officially Dropped

On July 24, 2025, FMCSA and NHTSA withdrew their proposed rule that would have required speed limiters on trucks over 26,000 pounds. For now, there’s no federal mandate on maximum governed speeds.

This decision provides more flexibility for drivers. Tanker drivers, for example, often need to adjust speeds depending on the cargo and road conditions. However, some carriers and insurers may still set voluntary limits. Always confirm with employers ahead of time on how they manage speed policies, since this can impact schedules and pay.

Hours-of-Service Updates

New HOS exceptions will allow short-haul drivers and drivers facing bad weather conditions to extend their shifts by two hours. Drivers who operate within 150 air miles and return to their work reporting location within 14 hours may not need to use an ELD. While this doesn’t apply to most OTR hazmat jobs, it could affect regional tanker drivers. 

Several ELD models, including WALKER ELD and SR ELD, were removed from the approved list earlier this year. Carriers using those devices must switch to approved systems to stay compliant.

TSA Streamlines Background Checks

TSA is expected to begin consolidating TWIC and HME background checks under the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act. The plan is to eliminate duplicate applications, reduce delays, and possibly synchronize expiration dates. This will eventually make the renewal process easier

Safety Measurement System Overhaul

FMCSA plans to roll out an overhaul of its Safety Measurement System (SMS) by the end of 2025. SMS underpins the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program and determines how violations affect a carrier’s score.

Hazmat drivers should expect changes in how violations such as placarding, load securement, or packaging are weighted. A small error that once had a minor impact could soon carry more weight. Carriers with poor CSA scores are targeted for inspections more often, so drivers at those companies can expect more law enforcement interactions.

Technology and the Future of Hazmat Trucking

Autonomous trucks continue to make headlines, with states like Texas, Arkansas, and Nevada allowing testing of driverless vehicles. California is debating rules for heavy-duty autonomous trucks.

For now, hazardous material loads are unlikely to go driverless. The risks of hauling dangerous cargo make human oversight essential. Hazmat drivers may see changes in how loads are monitored, logged, and reported as new technology enters the industry.

Environmental Regulations to Watch

California is pushing forward with clean air laws, requiring periodic emissions testing for heavy-duty trucks. The state is also pushing for zero-emission truck adoption, although challenges in court could delay full implementation.

Going green will be more complicated for hazmat carriers. Tankers carrying flammable liquids or compressed gases may not transition easily to electric power. Still, drivers should expect to see more pressure for greener technology over the next decade.

What This Means for Hazmat Drivers

The bottom line is that 2025 is packed with changes that affect hazmat drivers directly. From lower credentialing fees to electronic medical reporting, from stronger English enforcement to updated safety scoring, every rule has a real impact on how drivers work.

Choose Tri-State for High Paying Hazmat Jobs: Apply Today

Hazmat trucking remains one of the highest-paying careers in trucking, and Tri-State Trucking is proud to offer the highest pay. We are currently accepting applications for Hazmat Team Drivers, Tanker Drivers, and Owner-Operators. 

Our top drivers earn $130,000 per year plus benefits: paid vacation days, employer-paid health insurance, annual bonuses, and access to the best equipment. 

• Apply now for available Team Driver opportunities
• Apply now to be a Tanker Hazmat driver
• Apply now as an owner-operator