{"id":1165,"date":"2024-03-18T03:16:00","date_gmt":"2024-03-18T03:16:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sr22adviser.com\/guidance-and-tips\/?p=1165"},"modified":"2024-09-20T16:24:16","modified_gmt":"2024-09-20T16:24:16","slug":"breaking-barriers-can-i-get-my-cdl-after-a-dui","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sr22adviser.com\/guidance-and-tips\/general\/breaking-barriers-can-i-get-my-cdl-after-a-dui\/","title":{"rendered":"Breaking Barriers: Can I Get My CDL After A DUI?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"
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After getting convicted of driving under the influence, you\u2019re likely feeling eager to get a fresh start and put the past behind you. If you\u2019re thinking about trucking as a career, you may wonder if you\u2019ll even be able to get a CDL after a DUI. Having a DUI doesn\u2019t have to hold you back from getting your commercial driver\u2019s license (CDL) and finding a job as a trucker, but it can throw up some roadblocks.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Although you can get a CDL if you have a previous DUI, there are some restrictions you need to consider. It\u2019s typically more challenging to get hired as a commercial trucker if you have a driving-related conviction, but being prepared can help you increase your chances. Understanding the requirements can set you up for success as you explore potential job opportunities.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Depending on where you live, a DUI in your personal vehicle may have resulted in the need to file an <\/span>SR-22 certificate<\/span><\/a>. This can have major implications on your insurance rates, since it labels you a high-risk driver.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A Drunk Driving Conviction While Driving a Commercial Truck<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

If you already have a CDL and a trucking job, it\u2019s critical to avoid getting a DUI. If you get a DUI while driving a truck, it comes with serious consequences. If you were transporting hazardous cargo, you may even serve jail time. It will put your driving career at risk. If you get multiple DUIs as a commercial driver, you could even get a lifetime ban from getting a CDL.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s also easier to get a DUI while behind the wheel of your truck, as the legal limit for commercial drivers is only 0.04% \u2014 half of the legal limit for regular drivers.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Understanding the Complexity of a DUI History and Acquiring a CDL<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

You can get a commercial license with a DUI, but finding a trucking company to hire you \u2014 or trying to buy your own insurance as an independent owner-operator \u2014 is another story. If you are thinking about attending CDL school, let them know before you start about your DUI so you can take full advantage of their suggestions.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If your license was suspended after a DUI, you\u2019ll\u00a0 have to wait to start your CDL application until your license is fully reinstated. If you still have restrictions on your license or your reinstatement is pending, you won\u2019t be eligible for a CDL.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Waiting Out the License Suspension Period Before Getting a CDL<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

To qualify for a CDL, it\u2019s important to demonstrate your ability to be responsible on the road. As a result, you need to complete all court-ordered requirements to get your license back.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Every state requires you to complete some sort of suspension period before you can apply for a CDL. The length of your suspension can vary depending on the state you live in, so it\u2019s important to check your local laws. Some states only require you to wait out your original license suspension, while others have longer waiting periods. If you have a history of prior convictions, your suspension period will likely be even longer.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Time is the Healer: How Long after a DUI Can I Get my CDL?<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

Typically, you\u2019ll have to wait between one to three years before getting a CDL after getting your license suspended. Many states only require you to complete the waiting period for your original license suspension. Other states have longer minimum requirements.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For example, in Texas, you may only have a 90-day suspension for some offenses. However, you have to wait a minimum of a year before you can apply for a commercial license. Research the requirements in your state or consult a lawyer about your specific situation before starting the application process.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n

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