If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in California, a DUI arrest can have serious and often career-ending consequences. Unlike regular drivers, CDL holders are held to stricter legal standards, and a conviction can mean losing not just your license, but your livelihood.
At Scott Mitchell Law, we understand what’s at stake. Here’s what you need to know if you’re facing DUI charges as a commercial driver in California.
The Legal Limit for CDL Holders
Under California law, commercial drivers are subject to a lower legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit than non-commercial drivers. While the standard BAC limit for most drivers is 0.08%, the limit for CDL holders operating a commercial vehicle is 0.04%.
That means just one or two drinks could put you over the legal limit if you’re behind the wheel of your commercial vehicle. It’s important to know that this stricter limit applies only when you’re driving a commercial vehicle. If you’re driving your personal vehicle, the standard 0.08% limit applies, but a DUI conviction still affects your CDL.
What Happens If You’re Charged?
If you’re arrested for DUI while operating a commercial vehicle in California:
- Your CDL will be disqualified for at least one year on a first offense, even if you were driving your personal vehicle at the time of arrest.
- If you were transporting hazardous materials at the time of the DUI, the disqualification period increases to three years.
- A second DUI conviction (whether in a commercial or personal vehicle) will result in a lifetime disqualification of your CDL, although some reinstatement options may be available after ten years under certain circumstances.
In addition, these penalties apply regardless of whether you are convicted in court. Simply failing or refusing a chemical test will trigger administrative penalties through the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
DMV Consequences
A DUI arrest triggers two processes: the criminal case and the DMV administrative action. The DMV will move quickly to suspend your driving privileges, often before your court case concludes.
For CDL holders, this means you could lose your ability to work while your case is still pending. That’s why it’s critical to act fast. You have just ten days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing to contest the suspension.
Defenses Against a CDL DUI
Facing a DUI with a CDL isn’t necessarily hopeless. At Scott Mitchell Law, we scrutinize every detail, including:
- Whether the traffic stop was lawful
- The accuracy and reliability of the chemical tests
- Whether proper procedures were followed during your arrest
- Whether medical conditions or other factors could have affected test results
An experienced DUI defense attorney may be able to challenge the evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, or, in some cases, help you avoid a conviction altogether.
Do You Need a DUI Defense Lawyer?
The stakes in a CDL DUI case are higher than in a typical DUI. You’re not just facing fines, probation, or possible jail time. Your career is on the line. The legal process is complex, and without skilled representation, it’s easy to make mistakes that can cost you your livelihood.
At Scott Mitchell Law, we have extensive experience defending commercial drivers against DUI charges in California. We understand how to protect your rights, challenge questionable evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Learn More About Your Legal Options. Contact Us Today
If you’ve been arrested for DUI with a commercial license in California, don’t wait to get help. Contact Scott Mitchell Law today to review your case with our legal team. We’re here to help you navigate this difficult time and work toward protecting your future.