NHTSA to update tire safety standards, seeking public comment
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plans to modernize its tire safety standards, calling it the first major overhaul in more than 20 years.
The goal is to encourage the adoption of new technologies, enhance driver safety, and lower automotive costs, a NHTSA press release states.
A rulemaking notice listed on the Federal Register states that NHTSA plans to form a Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee for Tire Safety to “advise the Secretary [of Transportation] on tire safety matters through a negotiated rulemaking process.”
The updates focus on modernizing safety tests and evaluating new technologies.
“For tire testing, committee discussions would focus on the continued necessity and effectiveness of the tire strength test (plunger energy), the bead unseating resistance test, and the tire endurance test (chunking),” the notice states. “For other tire-related issues, the committee would evaluate broader regulatory topics, including the incorporation of non-pneumatic tires, modernization of tire markings, and a specific petition from the Tire and Rim Association (TRA) regarding the inclusion of Load Range F light truck tires in FMVSS No. 139.”
NHTSA says outdated tire strength, rim resistance, and endurance tests will be updated to align with current road conditions and modern tire technology.
“As American tire technology and vehicle design continue to evolve, our regulatory framework must keep pace,” said NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison in the release. “By bringing key industry stakeholders and other technical safety experts to the same table, we can modernize outdated standards to boost safety and reduce costs for you and your family.”
NHTSA also plans to set safety rules for new designs like puncture-proof tires, modernize tire sidewall markings, and review truck and SUV weight limit guidelines.
“To accelerate updating federal tire standards, NHTSA is using a negotiated rulemaking — consulting experts early to streamline the process,” the release states. “U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy will appoint up to 18 stakeholders across tire manufacturers, automakers, safety organizations, research institutions, and engineering associations.”
NHTSA asks the public to comment on the committee scope and membership. It has also requested formal nominations of committee members.
According to the notice, the deadline to comment and apply for committee membership is Nov. 27.
Comments can be submitted at regulations.gov under Docket No. NHTSA-2026-1717. Membership applications should be emailed to [email protected].
NHTSA also plans to modernize its outdated vehicle lighting standards, saying it will update the “long overdue” Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108.
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