Can a DUI Lead to a CDL Suspension?
If a Trucker Was Drunk Driving, Will They Lose Their License?
Driving under the influence is a major violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations. In fact, the standards for commercial drivers are stricter than for other motorists. While most motorists can be found guilty of drunk driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%, a truck driver can be found guilty with a BAC of only 0.04%.
The first offense for DUI causes a truck driver to lose their commercial driver's license (CDL) for a year. If they were impaired while driving a truck transporting hazardous materials, the trucker will be disqualified from driving for three years. For a second conviction of driving while under the influence, it will result in a lifetime disqualification.
Commercial driving privileges can also be lost for one year for the following offenses:
- Refusing to submit to a chemical test (ex: a DUI blood test).
- Leaving the scene of an accident causing property damage and/or injury.
- Driving a personal or commercial motor vehicle while impaired by drugs.
- Any felony committed with a personal or commercial motor vehicle.
- Operating a commercial motor vehicle with a revoked, suspended, or canceled CDL.
