Regulations! Regulations! What you need to know in 2025
The trucking industry is constantly evolving, not only due to technological advances but also because of changes in regulations that impact how companies operate. As we move through 2025, trucking companies must stay updated on new laws and policies that could affect their operations. In this blog, we’ll highlight the key regulations trucking companies should be aware of this year, from ELD mandates to new emissions standards.
1. ELD Mandate and Compliance Updates
Since the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate was first implemented in 2017, trucking companies have had to ensure that their vehicles are equipped with devices that automatically record driving hours. This regulation is part of the broader effort to improve safety by reducing driver fatigue and ensuring compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) rules.
For 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has proposed stricter compliance measures, including more robust data monitoring to ensure that ELDs are being used correctly. Companies should review their ELD systems to ensure that they meet the latest standards, especially since penalties for non-compliance have increased.
What trucking companies need to know:
- Ensure all trucks are equipped with compliant ELDs.
- Regularly update systems to keep up with new FMCSA rules.
- Prepare for potential audits that will be more stringent in 2025.
2. New Emissions Standards and Environmental Regulations
As part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ongoing efforts to reduce pollution and combat climate change, new emissions standards are set to roll out for diesel trucks in 2025. These regulations aim to lower nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, which have long been a major environmental concern.
In addition, states like California are enforcing even stricter regulations with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) setting ambitious goals for zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). This will likely lead to a push for electric or hydrogen fuel-powered trucks in the coming years. Trucking companies that operate in states with stricter regulations will need to adjust their fleets to comply with these emissions standards.
What trucking companies need to know:
- Prepare for more stringent emissions regulations starting in 2025, especially for fleets operating in states with higher environmental standards.
- Consider transitioning to low-emission or zero-emission vehicles.
- Stay informed about possible state-level regulations that may go beyond federal guidelines.
3. The Implementation of the Trucking Workforce Modernization Act
The Trucking Workforce Modernization Act, passed in 2021, is designed to address the longstanding driver shortage issue in the trucking industry. In 2025, trucking companies will need to navigate new measures that will be in effect to encourage more individuals to enter the trucking profession. These measures include:
- Apprenticeship Programs: A new federal pilot program will allow younger drivers (under 21) to operate interstate freight under certain conditions, aiming to help ease the driver shortage.
- Increased Training Requirements: New rules require enhanced training programs for new drivers, including increased behind-the-wheel training hours and a standardized curriculum.
Trucking companies will need to familiarize themselves with these changes, especially if they are involved in hiring or training new drivers. This is also an opportunity for companies to attract a new generation of truck drivers through apprenticeship programs.
What trucking companies need to know:
- Look into opportunities to partner with approved apprenticeship programs.
- Ensure that driver training programs are updated to meet the new federal standards.
- Take advantage of incentives for hiring young drivers and promoting diversity within the industry.
4. Truck Parking Availability and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)
In response to the ongoing truck parking shortage, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) signed in 2021 provided funding to help expand truck parking across the country. In 2025, trucking companies will benefit from the $1 billion allocated for this issue, which aims to ease congestion and improve safety by ensuring drivers have more available places to rest.
Although the implementation of these funding projects will take time, trucking companies should be aware of how this new infrastructure is expected to unfold and where new parking locations may be developed.
What trucking companies need to know:
- Stay informed about new truck parking facilities and how they may affect your routes.
- Work with drivers to ensure safe and compliant rest stops.
- Take advantage of improved infrastructure as new parking spaces open up.
5. Truck Driver Compensation and Wage Transparency Laws
As the labor market continues to evolve, there is growing pressure for trucking companies to improve compensation packages to attract and retain drivers. Some states, including California and New York, have recently enacted wage transparency laws that could impact how trucking companies pay their drivers.
In 2025, it’s essential for companies to evaluate their wage structures to ensure compliance with these laws. Trucking companies may also face increased pressure to improve working conditions, benefits, and pay to address driver shortages and retention challenges.
What trucking companies need to know:
- Review state-specific wage transparency laws and ensure compliance.
- Consider improving driver pay and benefits to enhance retention and attract new talent.
- Ensure that pay structures are transparent and comply with any new laws regarding employee compensation.
6. Safety Regulations and Technology Implementation
In addition to Hours of Service (HOS) and ELD regulations, the FMCSA has proposed new safety rules in 2025 aimed at reducing accidents and enhancing safety standards. These include the further integration of advanced safety technologies like collision avoidance systems, lane departure warnings, and electronic stability control systems.
By 2025, fleets will be expected to adopt these technologies to reduce accidents caused by driver error. Companies that haven’t already invested in these systems may need to begin integrating them into their fleets to stay compliant and reduce liability.
What trucking companies need to know:
- Begin installing or updating advanced safety technologies to meet FMCSA requirements.
- Train drivers on the new safety features in their trucks.
- Monitor the safety performance of your fleet to ensure continued compliance and accident reduction.
Conclusion
The trucking industry is in the midst of significant regulatory changes that require companies to adapt quickly in 2025. From compliance with the ELD mandate and emissions standards to embracing new safety technologies and addressing driver shortages, staying up-to-date on the latest regulations is critical for continued success in this fast-evolving industry. By preparing for these changes now, trucking companies can ensure smoother operations, avoid penalties, and help shape the future of freight transportation.
Peterson Manufacturing Company
Founded in 1945, Peterson Manufacturing Company is a world-leading innovator in the design, engineering and manufacturing of a complete line of commercial vehicle/trailer safety lighting and harness systems. With headquarters in the greater Kansas City area, Peterson is a privately held company. An ISO 9001:2015 certified company, Peterson Manufacturing is a key subsidiary of Peterson Corporation, five highly specialized companies and nearly 700 associates working in global transportation-related industries. For more information, visit PMLights.com.