The FMCSA has just implemented the most significant compliance update in years.
From how CSA scores are calculated to how medical cards are verified, it can seem like almost everything is changing. If you’re not ready, you’re already falling behind.
Here’s what every motor carrier, fleet operator, and CDL driver needs to know to stay compliant, competitive, and ahead of enforcement.
CSA Scores: Fewer Categories, Higher Consequences
The new CSA system simplifies violation tracking but tightens accountability. Some of the key changes include:
- Compliance category removed: Controlled Substance/Alcohol will be rolled into the Unsafe Driving category
- Compliance category added: Vehicle Maintenance: Driver Observed
- Severity scale simplified from 10 levels to just two:
- Level 1 = Standard violations
- Level 2 = Out-of-Service (OOS) or disqualifying issues
- Grouping related violations: The total number of possible violations will be consolidated, going from 973 to just 116 codes
- Proportionate safety event groups: Carriers are now scored based on actual crash/inspection totals, not generic percentiles
- 12-Month Reset Rule: No violations in a category for a year? You won’t be scored in it.
Action you can take: Audit your CSA profile ASAP. Clean categories = improved DOT perception and better insurance rates.
Digital Medical Cards Are Now Mandatory
As of June 23, 2025, medical certification is fully digital:
- CMEs must submit directly to FMCSA
- Certifications now link to MVR records
- No more paper cards, employers must verify online
- CDL holders risk an automatic downgrade if medical info is expired or missing
- 13 states (incl. FL, CA, NY) are still under interim guidance
Action you can take: Conduct monthly MVR verifications. Simplex can automate this for your fleet.
FMCSA Audits Target Non-Domiciled CDL Drivers
A federal audit sweep is underway to verify that only properly documented foreign nationals are holding CDLs:
- Focus will be on states misusing federal CDL issuance rules
- Goal: Eliminate inconsistencies and enforce uniform CDL standards
- Carriers must prove each driver’s eligibility
Action you can take: Simplex will review your foreign driver files and help you prepare for audit flags.
What About DataQ Challenges?
With stricter CSA thresholds and automated downgrade triggers, DataQ disputes are more critical than ever.
If a violation appears on your record incorrectly, or is misclassified under the new groupings—you need to:
- Respond immediately
- Include proper documentation
- Submit through the FMCSA DataQ system
Simplex Pro Tip: Don’t wait for enforcement to escalate. Our compliance team helps you challenge violations successfully via DataQ.
Speed Limiter Mandate Canceled (But Not Gone for Good)
The proposed speed limit rule is officially off the table—for now. President Trump has formally withdrawn the mandate that would have required trucks over 26,000 lbs. to use speed-limiting devices. This means:
- No federal speed limiter rule will proceed
- States may still push their own proposals
- Industry safety groups are already appealing the decision
Fleet Insight: Voluntary speed limiters still help reduce crash risk and improve CSA scores and may be required in future policy swings.
Simplex’s Compliance Checklist for 2025
- Review and reset CSA categories under new rules
- Go digital with all medical card and MVR processes
- Prepare foreign national driver files for FMCSA audits
- Challenge errors with DataQ before they hurt your score
- Create a voluntary speed control policy—even without a federal mandate
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Full Q&A: Answered and Unanswered Questions
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Need Help Understanding Any of These Changes Further?
Let’s make sure your team is ready, safe, and compliant.