A new rule restricts the use of hand-held mobile telephones and devices by drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMV). This rule, which goes into effect on January 3, 2012, was adopted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, which are part of the Department of Transportation. It amends both Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations and Hazardous Materials regulations. The rule restricts CMV drivers from reaching for or holding mobile telephones while operating their vehicles, or pushing more than one button to operate the device.

Commercial motor vehicle drivers are still permitted to use mobile telephones and other mobile devices as long as their use complies with the new regulation. Essentially, drivers may initiate, answer or terminate a call if they can do so with the push of a single button, on a device within their reach, and without holding it in their hand.