CDL holders face stricter standards and more severe consequences for DUI and traffic offenses. Our attorneys understand what is at stake for your career.
Free Case EvaluationDriving a commercial vehicle is treated differently than driving a personal car, so Washington CDL-holders are held to a much stricter standard than normal drivers when it comes to driving offenses. Federal regulations impose constraints on Washington state law and require severe penalties for Washington CDL offenses. Your commercial drivers license can be suspended or revoked even for offenses occurring while in a personal vehicle.
CDL Holders: Your Career Is at Stake
If you have a commercial drivers license, it is critical to contact the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer to discuss your individual situation immediately. There is no occupational or ignition interlock license for purposes of commercial driving. A CDL disqualification is complete and will require re-application and testing to regain commercial driving privileges.
A driver faces mandatory Washington CDL disqualification for certain offenses committed while driving a commercial motor vehicle (see RCW 46.25.090). The period of disqualification can range anywhere from 30 days all the way up to a lifetime disqualification depending on the nature and number of offenses.
If you have a Washington CDL and are arrested for DUI in your personal vehicle, it can impact your commercial driving privileges. If the Department of Licensing suspends your license administratively, or you are convicted of DUI, the CDL will be disqualified.
| Circumstance | Prior Offenses | CDL Disqualification |
|---|---|---|
| BAC above .08 or refusal of BAC | 1st DUI | 1 year |
| BAC above .08 or refusal of BAC | 2nd DUI | Lifetime |
Physical Control Exception
At this time, a conviction for being in physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence does not have the same impact on CDLs and will not result in a suspension of your CDL (but it will suspend your regular license). However, an administrative suspension from a physical control arrest would result in disqualification.
The bottom line is that if you are a CDL-holder, it is very important that you contest all actions that could result in CDL disqualification, and carefully consider any CDL implications before entering into any plea agreements. Every case is different, so please contact us immediately to schedule a consultation.
The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer will fight to ensure that you achieve the best possible outcome in your court case. Call today at (360) 334-6277 to schedule an immediate confidential consultation to protect your commercial driving privileges in Washington State.
Don’t face legal challenges alone. Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you.