Commercial drivers have been given an exemption for the hand-held use of two-way radios until January 1, 2013. After this time drivers will have to switch to hands-free devices. There is a permanent exemption for the hands-free use of two-way radios by commercial drivers, allowing them to press and hold the microphone button to talk and release to listen, repeating as often as necessary to conduct a conversation.  The microphone must be secured in or mounted to the vehicle and within easy reach of the driver.