How Traffic Ticket and DUIs Will Affect Your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is generally required to lawfully operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Depending on the type of CMV and several other factors, a CDL holder might be required to hold certain special endorsements and be subject to various restrictions. A CDL can also be revoked for misconduct such as certain criminal convictions and rule violations.

This article outlines when a CDL is required, how to obtain a CDL, and the circumstances that can lead to a driver losing CDL privileges.

What Is a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)?

Generally, any person who drives a vehicle weighing 26,001 or more pounds, designed to carry hazardous materials, or carrying 16 or more passengers must possess a CDL. These rules are federally mandated, but certain states have limited exceptions. For example, military vehicles, medical response vehicles, RVs, and farm trucks operating close to the farm usually don’t require a CDL to operate.

CDL Classifications Based on Weight and Type of Cargo

There are three classes of CDLs based on the weight of the truck and/or trailer(s).

A Class C CDL can be used to operate lighter vehicles that carry hazardous materials or 16 or more passengers. But a higher class CDL can always be used to operate a CMV below its weight class. In other words, a Class A CDL can be used to operate any weight of CMV and/or trailer.

Special CDL Endorsements Required for Certain Cargos

Endorsements are listed on the CDL and grant additional privileges, like the ability to transport hazardous materials or operate a CMV with air brakes. Adding endorsements requires additional training and sometimes additional testing.

Seasonal CDLs

Many states have created a temporary CDL to help with agricultural harvest and other seasonal operations. The license is only valid for a few months, cannot be used far away from the farm, and is restricted to hauling certain weights and contents. Applicants are required to have a current driver’s license but are generally exempt from the usual CDL driving tests.

What Are the Requirements to Get a CDL?

The first step in becoming a licensed commercial driver is obtaining a commercial learner permit (CLP). The CLP requires a valid driver’s license, passage of a written CMV knowledge test, and proof of state residency. The applicant can then use the CLP to practice CMV operation under the supervision of a licensed commercial driver.

Once proficient in operating a CMV, CLP holders can take the driving test to obtain a full CDL. Drivers must generally be at least 18 years old to hold a CDL and at least 21 years old to operate a CMV out-of-state.

Federal rules require CDL holders to obtain a medical certification card from a licensed physician. The doctor checks for any medical conditions that could make CMV operation unsafe. Drivers with unsafe medical conditions might be subject to restrictions and limitations.

How Does a Traffic Ticket Affect My CDL?

Federal regulations state that CDL holders who accumulate two “serious traffic violations” in three years must be revoked for 60 days and CDL holders who get three serious violations in three years face a 120-day revocation.

Most traffic offenses, such as speeding and tailgating, are considered serious traffic violations only if committed in a CMV. However, some states have expanded the definition of serious traffic violation. For example, in Oregon, driving over 100 miles per hour or speeding 30 miles per hour over the limit in a personal vehicle is considered a serious traffic violation and can lead to CDL revocation. A traffic violation in a non-CMV that results in driver’s license suspension can also be considered a serious traffic violation.

In states with license demerit systems, traffic violations (committed in either a CMV or personal vehicle) can result in license demerit points going on the driver’s record. Too many accumulated points will result in the suspension of both commercial and personal driving privileges.

Can You Get a CDL With a DUI on Your Record?

Having a DUI on your record can pose an obstacle to obtaining a CDL.

Federal rules mandate revocation for major offenses—one year for a first offense and a lifetime for a second or subsequent offense. Major offenses include impaired driving, unlawful DUI test refusal, leaving the scene of an accident, and using a vehicle in the commission of a felony. These offenses—committed in a CMV or personal vehicle—are considered major offenses and will result in CDL revocation.

So, having one DUI on your record won't necessarily prevent you from getting a CDL. But having two DUI priors, in most instances, will prohibit a person from ever obtaining a commercial driver's license.

How Do I Get My CDL Reinstated After Disqualification?

If you've had your CDL suspended or revoked, the main thing you'll need to do for reinstatement is wait out the suspension or revocation period. But, depending on the laws of your state and your specific situation, you might need to complete classes, reapply to CDL privileges, retake qualification tests, or complete court-order requirements.

Contact a Traffic Attorney

While most personal-vehicle tickets will not affect a CDL, the violations discussed above put the driver at risk of losing CDL privileges and possibly his or her livelihood. If you’ve been cited for a serious or major violation, be sure to visit with a local traffic attorney who can help you understand the possible consequences and decide on the best course of action.