DUI and DWI laws for commercial drivers are more stringent than those for non-commercial drivers. Under federal and state laws, CDL holders must adhere to lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits and stricter enforcement standards.

- Lower BAC Limit: The federal legal BAC limit for CDL drivers is 0.04%, compared to 0.08% for non-commercial drivers. This means a commercial driver can be charged with a DUI/DWI even if their BAC is below the standard limit for other drivers.
- Impaired Driving Rules: CDL holders can be charged with a DUI/DWI if they are suspected of impairment due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, even if their BAC is below 0.04%.
- Off-Duty DUI Charges: In certain states, DUI/DWI violations penalties apply to commercial drivers holding a CDL license even when they operate their private vehicle. A DUI conviction while off duty can still lead to a CDL suspension.

CDL holders convicted of DUI/DWI face serious consequences that can affect their career and ability to drive commercially. Penalties vary by state but generally include the following:

- License Suspension: A first-time DUI/DWI conviction triggers a one-year CDL suspension regardless of whether the driver operated a personal vehicle instead of a commercial vehicle. The CDL suspension term for drivers who transport hazardous materials is three years.
- Permanent CDL Revocation: A second DUI/DWI offense will permanently ban you from obtaining a CDL, eliminating your ability to continue driving commercially.
- Fines and Court Costs: Fines for CDL DUI offenses start at $500 and can reach up to $5,000, based on the circumstances of each violation.
- Criminal Charges: In certain states, a commercial DUI/DWI is classified as a misdemeanor or felony, resulting in additional consequences, including probation and jail terms.
- Employment Consequences: Most trucking companies and transportation employers fire drivers convicted of DUI/DWI because their insurance providers can choose to stop offering coverage.

Two or more DUI offenses result in severe punishment through extended suspension periods, elevated fines, and a complete commercial driving ban.

Beyond legal penalties, a DUI/DWI conviction can have lasting effects on a commercial driver’s career and financial stability.

- Increased Insurance Costs: Insurance coverage for commercial vehicles skyrockets after a DUI incident, making affordable options scarce for independent drivers.
- Loss of Employment and Future Job Prospects: Employers commonly perform background checks that result in transportation job eligibility being denied to applicants who have DUI convictions.
- Impact on Personal Driving Record: A commercial DUI produces dual has implications on both commercial and personal driving records, making it harder to obtain non-commercial driving privileges.
- Difficulty Reinstating CDL: Some states require extensive drug and alcohol education programs before reinstating a suspended CDL, adding additional costs and time delays.

If you are a commercial driver facing DUI/DWI charges, a strong legal defense may help reduce penalties or dismiss charges. Potential defenses include:

- Challenging the Accuracy of BAC Tests: Breathalyzers and blood tests can produce flawed results because of calibration errors, contamination, or medical conditions.
- Questioning the Legality of the Traffic Stop: The prosecution may drop the case when an officer fails to establish sufficient grounds for stopping you.
- Proving Improper Field Sobriety Testing: CDL drivers may have difficulty performing field sobriety tests due to fatigue, medical conditions, or environmental factors.
- Negotiating Lesser Charges: In some cases, an attorney can negotiate plea deals to reduce a DUI charge to reckless driving, minimizing the long-term impact.

Commercial drivers should seek legal representation because a commercial DUI results in severe career consequences.

A DUI/DWI conviction can be devastating for commercial drivers, leading to long-term career setbacks, financial losses, and legal complications. If you are facing commercial DUI charges, consulting a DUI attorney is essential to explore legal defenses, minimize penalties, and protect your livelihood.