FMCSA proposes pilot to pause 14-hour driving window

A new pilot program for commercial drivers is open for public comment. The program would test if drivers can pause their 14-hour driving window.

Drivers could take up to 3 hours of off-duty, sleeper berth, or on-duty not driving time. This break must happen at the cargo pickup or delivery location. The pause would stop the 14-hour clock from running.

About 256 drivers will take part in the research. Each driver will be tracked for 16 weeks. The study will use surveys, sleep tests, wrist devices, telematics, and duty status records to measure fatigue and driving performance.

The goal is to see if this flexibility improves driver quality of life without reducing safety. FMCSA previously considered this change in 2019 but dropped it after comments warned that carriers or shippers might pressure drivers to use the break for loading delays instead of rest.

Carriers and drivers can submit comments on the information collection request. All comments must be received by December 7, 2026. Submissions should reference docket number FMCSA-2026-2081.

Source: Federal Register — https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/10/06/2026-20476/agency-information-collection-activities-new-information-collection-hours-of-service-of-drivers