FMCSA HOS Pilot Programs Move Toward 512-Driver Launch in 2027

FMCSA has completed small pre-tests for two hours-of-service pilot programs and is preparing to expand them in 2027. The agency announced August 27 that the full studies are expected to enroll 256 drivers each, or 512 participants combined. The research will examine whether added scheduling flexibility can maintain or improve safety for commercial drivers.

The Flexible Sleeper Berth Pilot Program would let participating drivers divide the required rest into two periods totaling at least 10 hours, provided one period includes at least five consecutive hours in the sleeper berth. Its pre-test ran from April 1 through June 11 with nine drivers from three carriers in Ohio, Virginia and Wisconsin.

The Split Duty Period Pilot Program would allow participants to pause the 14-hour driving window for as long as three hours during qualifying non-driving time. That could include off-duty or sleeper-berth time, plus on-duty waiting at a pickup or delivery location. FMCSA said it will monitor shipper behavior so the added flexibility does not encourage more detention or driver exploitation. Its pre-test included nine drivers and ran from May 18 through July 17.

These pilots do not change the hours-of-service rules for drivers who are not enrolled. Fleets and CDL professionals must continue following the current limits unless FMCSA formally accepts them into a study and provides operating instructions. Full-program participants are expected to take part for four months and may receive up to $1,600 for completing study tasks. Interested drivers and carriers can send contact information to the agency's pilot-program email listed in the official announcement.