CDL License Impact

A DUI has a big impact on a driver that holds a commercial driver’s license (CDL). A CDL license is required in Connecticut to drive commercial vehicles like buses, large trucks, and trucks carrying hazardous materials. CDL drivers are held to a higher standard than an average driver. A DUI conviction, a refusal to take a BAC test or a failure of a BAC test could all result in a 1-year CDL disqualification. If the DUI offense occurred while the offender was transporting hazardous materials requiring special placards under federal law, the license disqualification will be three years.

CDL License Disqualifications and Penalties

The three causes for automatic disqualification of a CDL license are (1) BAC test refusal under any circumstances, regardless of what motor vehicle was being driven at the time of the stop, (2) a BAC test result of .04% or more while driving a commercial vehicle or a .08% or more while driving any motor vehicle, and (3) any DUI conviction resulting from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Any CDL holder who is charged with any subsequent DUI will be disqualified for life from having a CDL, though can apply for reinstatement after 10 years and after completion of a voluntary addiction treatment program. The commissioner can disqualify a Connecticut CDL license after any DUI conviction, BAC test refusal, or failure in a different state as well.

CDL license truck drivers are subjected to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s regulations regarding drug and alcohol use while driving. The regulations are very restrictive and set a BAC limit of merely .04% because of the safety risks involved with driving large, potentially dangerous loads of hazardous material and cargo. The FMCSA rules also state that a refusal to submit to a blood alcohol test will result in an automatic finding of guilty of driving under the influence.

A DUI charge for CDL holders can be especially damaging to a person’s reputation, employment, and livelihood, so having a DUI lawyer is even more important and can seriously impact the result of the case. If you need a lawyer to help you with your DUI, contact Lady DUI.