Iowa Eases HOS Rules for Fuel Haulers

Fuel truck drivers in Iowa are getting temporary relief from certain Hours of Service (HOS) restrictions.

On October 29, 2026, Governor Kim Reynolds declared a statewide emergency because of problems with fuel deliveries.

Maintenance at refineries and fuel terminals has affected supplies. At the same time, farmers need more fuel during the harvest season.

Some drivers are traveling farther to pick up fuel and waiting longer at terminals.

The new order temporarily suspends Iowa's HOS restrictions for drivers delivering diesel, gasoline, gasoline blends, ethanol, and biodiesel into or within Iowa.

The relief is effective immediately and lasts through November 28, 2026.

But drivers still have important protections.

Trucking companies cannot force tired or sick drivers to continue driving.

If a driver requests immediate rest because of fatigue, the company must provide at least 10 consecutive hours off duty.

Drivers who have worked more than 70 hours in eight consecutive days can also request at least 34 consecutive hours off.

Other CDL, drug testing, and safety requirements still apply.

!What This Means for CDL Drivers

If you haul fuel into or within Iowa, the temporary order may give you more flexibility with your working hours.

But this relief does not automatically cancel every federal HOS requirement.

Drivers and dispatchers should confirm which rules apply to their routes.

The order expires November 28, 2026, unless extended or canceled earlier.