Do You Lose Your CDL if You Get a DWI?
For commercial truck drivers, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is essential to their livelihood. Losing commercial driving privileges can jeopardize their employment and financial stability. A conviction for driving while intoxicated (DWI) can have serious consequences, including the loss of a CDL and the ability to continue working as a commercial driver.
In Texas, a commercial driver can lose their CDL after an alcohol-related offense. This is true even if the violation occurs in a personal vehicle rather than a commercial truck. Depending on the circumstances, a driver may face a one-year disqualification, a three-year disqualification, or even a lifetime ban from operating commercial vehicles.
These strict penalties reflect the dangers associated with impaired driving, particularly when large commercial trucks are involved.
What Is a Commercial Driver’s License?
A commercial driver’s license, commonly called a CDL, is a special license that authorizes a person to operate large or specialized motor vehicles. Commercial vehicles are often substantially larger and heavier than ordinary passenger cars. Operating them safely requires additional knowledge, training, and skill.
Drivers generally need a CDL to operate qualifying vehicles such as:
- Large tractor-trailer and semi-trucks
- Certain heavy straight trucks
- Commercial vehicles towing large trailers
- Buses designed to transport specified numbers of passengers
- Vehicles transporting certain hazardous materials
Commercial licenses are divided into different classifications as follows:
- A Class A CDL applies to qualifying combination vehicles, like tractor-trailers.
- A Class B CDL generally covers certain heavy single vehicles, such as large trucks or buses.
- A Class C CDL applies to certain vehicles that require commercial licenses because of passenger capacity or hazardous material transportation.
Some drivers may also need special endorsements to transport passengers, operate certain tank vehicles, or carry hazardous materials.
What Is a DWI in Texas?
Although people often use the terms DUI and DWI interchangeably, Texas law makes an important distinction. For most adult drivers, the relevant criminal offense is driving while intoxicated (DWI). A person commits the offense of DWI by operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.
Intoxication can involve a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more. It may also involve the loss of normal mental or physical faculties because of alcohol, drugs, or another substance.
For CDL holders, the consequences of an alcohol-related offense can be much more severe than those imposed on an ordinary motorist. A commercial driver may face both criminal penalties and administrative action affecting their license.
Can You Lose Your CDL After a DWI in Texas?
Yes. A DWI offense can result in a commercial driver’s license disqualification for at least one year. The specific consequences depend on the offense and the circumstances.
Driving a Commercial Vehicle While Intoxicated
Commercial drivers are subject to a lower alcohol concentration threshold while operating commercial vehicles. A blood alcohol concentration of 0.04% or more while operating a commercial vehicle can trigger CDL disqualification. This is half the ordinary alcohol threshold applicable to adult drivers operating personal vehicles.
Importantly, a commercial driver may be considered intoxicated under Texas law based on impairment. Impairment is assessed even when the alcohol concentration is below the threshold.
Driving a Personal Vehicle While Intoxicated
Some CDL holders mistakenly believe that their commercial driving privileges are only at risk when they are operating a commercial truck. That is not the case. A commercial driver who is convicted of DWI while driving a personal car can face a one-year CDL disqualification.
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test
Refusing a legally requested alcohol or drug test can also result in administrative consequences. A refusal can lead to commercial driving disqualification even when the related criminal case has not resulted in a conviction.
Can You Get Your CDL Back After a DWI in Texas?
In many cases, a driver who loses a commercial driver’s license may eventually become eligible to obtain a CDL again. However, reinstatement depends on the reason for disqualification, whether the required period has expired, and whether the driver has satisfied applicable licensing requirements.
Contact Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Dallas Truck Accident Attorney
A DWI can have devastating consequences for a commercial driver. However, the consequences for innocent accident victims can be even more severe. If you or a loved one was injured in a Texas DWI accident, don’t wait to get help.
Contact Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a Dallas truck accident lawyer. We will investigate the crash and help you pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.
We proudly serve in Dallas County and its surrounding areas:
Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers
1825 Market Center Blvd # 350, Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: (214) 556-8321
Hours Open: 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Dallas.
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About the Author
Jeff BentonJeff Benton is the founder of Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers in Dallas. He represents clients in claims involving truck accidents, car accidents, wrongful death, workplace accidents, and other forms of negligence. Jeff is known for taking on difficult cases that other firms decline and for fighting aggressively against powerful insurance companies and corporate defendants. He was honored with the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association’s John Howie Award for his pursuit of justice and remains committed to helping injured individuals and families throughout Texas. Click here to see some of his notable case results.
