2025 Trucking Regulations: Key Compliance Updates to Know

2025 Trucking Regulations: AEB & Speed Limiter Compliance

If you’ve ever dealt with truck regulations, you know they can feel pretty tedious. But missing key updates can drain your wallet in no time. We’re kicking off a three-part series here, and in this first section, let’s tackle two big changes heading our way in 2025: the Automatic Emergency Braking Mandate and the Speed Limiter Mandate. Consider this your guide to keeping your fleet compliant and operations smooth in 2025 and beyond. Make sure to bookmark this page—there’s more valuable information coming in the next installments.

Automatic Emergency Braking Mandate: What’s Happening?

Let’s start with something that’s been making waves lately: the Automatic Emergency Braking Mandate. By 2027, all new heavy trucks (Class 7–8) must have Automatic Emergency Braking systems installed. Medium-duty vehicles (Class 3–6) will follow suit by 2028. This isn’t some small tweak—it’s expected to prevent approximately 19,000 crashes and save 155 lives each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

AEB systems automatically apply brakes to prevent rear-end collisions if the driver doesn’t react fast enough. It’s like an extra set of eyes always alert for potential hazards, operating effectively at speeds between 6 and 50 mph. And let’s face it, no matter how experienced your drivers are, distractions and fatigue happen—AEB adds an extra safety layer when human reactions fall short.

What Fleet Managers Need to Do

Once these regulations kick in, fleet managers will need to ensure any new heavy-duty trucks are equipped with factory-installed AEB and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). It’s also your job to keep these systems maintained—no disabling allowed, no exceptions. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines or even disruptions in operations, as outlined clearly by FMCA Filings.

Leveraging Fleet Tracking for AEB Compliance

Now, fleet tracking isn’t mandated here—but it’s going to become incredibly valuable. Here’s why: telematics solutions can document braking events, capture near-collisions, and pinpoint exactly when AEB activated. Imagine this—you pull up your daily fleet report and see exactly when a vehicle’s AEB engaged. You can then use this insight for coaching drivers, making your fleet safer and more efficient.

To see how tracking can support your compliance efforts, check out our dual dash cam systems page or fill out the form for a demo.

Speed Limiter Mandate: Slowing Down for Safety

If the AEB mandate is about reacting faster, the Speed Limiter Mandate is about proactively controlling speed. The FMCSA is preparing to finalize this rule by mid-2025, and it will likely cap truck speeds somewhere between 65 and 70 mph for all heavy trucks (over 26,000 lbs) equipped with electronic engine control units.

It’s no surprise that speeding contributes significantly to accidents. In fact, in one year alone (2019), speeding trucks accounted for over 860 fatalities in high-speed areas. This mandate aims to cut that number dramatically by standardizing truck speeds nationwide.

Practical Compliance for Fleet Operators

Under the new rules, it will be your job to make sure speed limiters are properly set and remain operational. This isn’t just a one-time setup—it’s an ongoing responsibility. You’ll need clear documentation of your trucks’ speed limiter settings, ready for inspections or roadside audits.

Non-compliance is a serious risk. If an inspection uncovers even a single truck exceeding the set speed, fines can stack up quickly, potentially climbing into the thousands. Worse yet, repeated offenses can lead to major business disruptions, with enforcement agencies issuing “out-of-service” orders in extreme cases.

The Role of Fleet Tracking in Speed Limiter Compliance

But don’t stress just yet—fleet tracking technology makes compliance straightforward. With GPS-based telematics, you can monitor vehicle speeds in real-time. These tools can send immediate alerts if any truck momentarily exceeds the mandated speed cap, giving fleet managers real-time control and peace of mind.

Fleet tracking also helps tackle the logistical side effects. If you’re worried about schedules, GPS tracking data can show exactly how trip durations might change with capped speeds. And guess what? Many fleets that have voluntarily limited speeds noticed substantial fuel savings, reduced wear and tear, and even lower insurance premiums. Suddenly, what looks like just another regulation becomes a practical win for your business.

Interested in more detailed compliance strategies? Our previous blog post “What You Should Know About ELD Compliance” has additional insights to help you navigate these changes.

Practical Upgrades: Hands-On Training and Incentives for Safer Fleets

One practical tip for fleet managers is to organize periodic refresher sessions that focus on emerging safety protocols and device upkeep. Drivers who have hands-on experience with AEB demonstrations often report greater confidence when unpredictable traffic situations arise. In the case of speed limiters, it’s wise to regularly test system accuracy by monitoring real-world speed data. This approach not only helps confirm compliance but also encourages open communication between drivers and fleet administrators.

Some organizations are introducing rewards for consistent adherence to safety guidelines, which has proven to boost overall morale. It also helps remind everyone that staying within legal thresholds isn’t solely about avoiding fines; it’s about protecting lives on the road. By tackling any technical hiccups early, fleet owners can sidestep last-minute scrambling and maintain a solid reputation. Setting aside time for careful planning now can prevent much larger headaches once the regulations are fully enforced and beyond.

Looking Forward

Both the AEB and Speed Limiter mandates are about making the roads safer and keeping your operations in good standing. It might feel daunting initially, but these technologies could significantly benefit your bottom line and improve overall fleet safety.

Remember, regulations evolve constantly, and these two changes are just the tip of the iceberg. Keep your eyes peeled for our upcoming blog installments—we’ll dive into other key 2025 trucking regulations and help you turn compliance into a competitive advantage.

Next Step: Schedule a Demo

Want to stay ahead and stress-free with fleet tracking compliance? Fill out our online form to request your demo. We’ll show you how easy it is to keep your fleet safe, efficient, and fully compliant as regulations continue to evolve.

Stay tuned—we’ll see you soon for Part Two!