ML26037A164
| ML26037A164 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Issue date: | 02/28/2026 |
| From: | Lauren Nist NRC/NRR/DRO/IOLB |
| To: | |
| References | |
| Download: ML26037A164 (0) | |
Text
The Future of Operator Licensing Modern Approaches for a Changing Nuclear Landscape Panel Discussion February 2026
The NRC is developing two new regulatory options for licensing future nuclear power plants and revising existing regulations, including those for operators licenses.
Rule Title Next milestone /
estimated date*
New - Part 53 Risk-informed, technology-inclusive regulatory framework for advanced reactors Final rule / April 30, 2026 New - Part 57 Licensing requirements for microreactors and other low consequence reactors Proposed rule for public comment / February 23, 2026 Revised -
Part 55 Regulatory enhancements for reactor licensing, decommissioning, and operational oversight Proposed rule for public comment / April 22, 2026
- Estimated dates are subject to change
You can stay informed of the status of these rules and provide comments.
- Stay informed:
- Visit the NRCs website at www.nrc.gov
- Select Documents for Comment under the Public Meetings &
Involvement tab on the home page
- Select Rulemaking Activity under the Spotlight section on the home page, then select the rule of interest
- Subscribe to email updates via GovDelivery
- Select Subscribe to email updates under the Public Meetings &
Involvement tab on the home page and make selections (select Documents for comment and/or Federal Register Notices).
- Provide comments:
- Comments can be submitted electronically on www.regulations.gov during the comment period.
The NRC has developed, and continues to develop, tools and strategies to effectively and efficiently license operators.
The NRC has:
- Integrated testing of generic fundamentals knowledge into the site-specific written exam.
- Better aligned operating test performance deficiency grading to safety significance.
- Established processes for efficient use of examiner resources to support initial exams and requal inspections across the nation.
The NRC has developed, and continues to develop, tools and strategies to effectively and efficiently license operators.
The NRC continues to:
- Maintain awareness of industry efforts and activities, conduct research as needed, share information, and request feedback
- Develop the NRC Portal for web-based document submissions
- Maintain examiner resources
- Prepare regulatory guidance for advanced reactors
Any Questions / Comments /
Feedback?