Can You Get a CDL With a DUI?
There’s a huge demand for truck drivers in the U.S. and other parts of the world. According to the American Trucking Associations, the industry could be short 160,000 drivers by 2030. This is because the industry has more older drivers who are (or will be) retiring in the next few years. And this isn’t the only reason for the increased demand.
So, what’s stopping you from getting a Commercial Driver’s License or CDL and becoming a professional truck driver?
Getting a CDL is a significant achievement, especially if you’re pursuing a career in the transportation industry.
But can you get a CDL with a DUI on your record? Let’s find out.
What’s a DUI?
A DUI, or Driving Under the Influence (DUI), is an offense of driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The consequences of a DUI include fines, license and registration suspensions, and even jail time.
The specific penalties vary depending on the state you’re convicted in, if you had children in the motor vehicle, and whether this is your first alcohol-related traffic offense, among other factors.
You’ll likely lose your driver’s license for a particular period if found with a DUI offense. This makes it harder to obtain a CDL in the future.
What is a CDL?
A CDL, or Commercial Driver’s License, is a license required in the U.S. to operate large or heavy commercial vehicles like trucks, probably weighing over 26,000 pounds.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), you must pass both skills and knowledge testing geared to higher standards to obtain a CDL.
The Impact of a DUI on Your CDL and Driving Record?
A DUI conviction has weighty consequences, especially for those wishing to become commercial drivers. The impact is more on your CDL and driving record.
First, your regular driving privileges will likely be suspended for a particular period following a DUI conviction. The suspension or revocation period varies depending on your circumstances and previous convictions.
Additionally, a DUI will leave a massive dent in your driving record. While you may be able to obtain a CDL with a DUI, finding employment as a commercial driver will be daunting as companies don’t want to risk their reputation, cargo, and insurance premiums by employing a DUI convict.
If you already have a CDL, a DUI conviction may disqualify you from operating commercial vehicles for a specific period.
Can You Get a CDL With a DUI?
Among the consequences of a DUI is losing your driving privileges (your CDL). Fortunately, it’s possible to get a CDL with a DUI on your record.
Ideally, if you have one DUI on your driving record, you’re eligible for a CDL when the suspension period lapses. A second DUI conviction usually attracts a ten-year suspension of your CDL, after which you can reapply and get your CDL back.
However, you risk lifetime disqualification of your CDL if you’ve been convicted of more than two DUIs.
Additionally, even if you’re eligible for CDL after a DUI, you still need to undergo another driver’s test to get your license reinstated. And the entire process can be more complicated.
How to Get a CDL With a DUI
The procedure for obtaining a CDL with and without a DUI is similar—perhaps the only difference is time. Suspension times to get a CDL after a DUI vary by state. However, most states require a valid driver’s license without any suspensions.
So, if you’re trying to obtain a CDL license with a DUI, consider reviewing your state’s guidelines on the same.
The basic requirements for getting a CDL for the first time include;
- You must be at least 18 years old to drive within your state and 21 years old to drive across state lines
- You must have a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for a minimum of 14 days
- Pass a skill test
- Be a permanent resident of your state
- Complete an entry-level driver training (ELDT) program
- Have a valid driver’s license in the state, you will get a CDL
- Pass background history evaluation
The Three Basic Steps to Getting a CDL
If you’re applying for a CDL for the first time, you should first understand all the requirements, which include medical, residency, knowledge, and skills. You also need a copy of your state’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Manual.
Additionally, you need to decide the type of vehicle and the kind of driving you want to obtain the license for. There are CDL classes with endorsements for specialized qualifications for vehicles such as tank trucks, school buses, and tractor-trailers. Once you understand the basic requirements, follow these three steps to obtain your CDL.
- Obtain the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): The CLP only authorizes you to practice on public roads with a qualified CDL holder next to you.
- Complete Entry-Level Driver Training: If applying for a Class A or Class B CDL, you must complete entry-level driver training with a registered training provider.
- Get the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): You must pass the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the Road Test, among other tests, to obtain your CDL. Once you receive your CDL, ensure there are no mistakes; it can be costly if an error is found.
Seeking Legal Counsel
Want to obtain a CDL with a DUI on your record? While possible, the process can be complicated, especially if you do it alone. This is why we recommend seeking legal counsel when applying for a CDL with DUI.
At Cumberland Law Group, we have a team of experienced lawyers who understand the challenges commercial drivers face within Georgia. We know how difficult it is to get your license reinstated after a DUI conviction.
Our criminal defense lawyers will advise you on your legal situation, build a defense strategy, and fight to get your DUI charges dismissed.
Get Your CDL with a DUI with the Help of Cumberland Law Group
As you’ve seen, getting a CDL with a DUI is possible in Georgia. However, the process is more complicated. Worse, employers might not be willing to hire you, even if you obtain the CDL with a DUI.
Regardless of your specific circumstance, you need a competent criminal defense attorney to help you navigate the entire process.
At Cumberland Law Group, we’ve helped many clients get their CDLs reinstated after receiving a DUI. We can help you get a CDL with a DUI. Feel free to contact us to schedule a free consultation.