FMCSA Issues Alternative Standard for Monocular Drivers 3/22/22

So some years ago I explored a career in OTR trucking, always a dream of mine. I realized I'd be unable to get a CDL due to an uncorrectable lazy right eye since birth. Regardless of the fact that I can see great, eyes/mind compensated, no glasses needed, left eye on its own is near 20/20.

I've been following developments over the past year that monocular drivers are now permitted following a medical exam if they can demonstrate the type of vision that I have and at least one eye is or can be corrected to 20/40.

The change is effective March 22 from what I read. How quickly will trucking companies that recruit + train (Swift, Schneider, etc.) be accepting of new drivers that only meet the new vision standard? Are changes like this immediately adopted by the DOT medical examiners and well understood by the trucking companies as they recruit, or something that will slowly get rolled out over time and I'll have to jump through some hurdles?

Excited I can now pursue this career!

 

Thanks.... my eyesight is great and I have driven for 25+ years with no accidents, so not worried about the safety aspect

 

Thanks, I'd plan to do that. I live in Phoenix, so Swift-Knight seems to be THE option out here!

 

Thank you. Assuming I would need to go through my own self-paid training and obtain a CDL on my own for this option? I was leaning towards Swif-Knight as they are a one stop shop for new drivers with training, CDL guidance, etc. I understand you're locked in for the first year, but I am OK with that as I get my feet wet in the industry.