Will I Lose My Commercial Driver’s License if I Get a DUI?

Posted on:

If you drive a commercial truck, tow truck or bus, there’s a good chance that you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL); it’s required by law if you want to operate any large or heavy vehicle over a certain weight. Since driving these vehicles is typically a career choice, losing your license would be devastating. Not only would you lose your job, but also lose the ability to support your family and loved ones.

In Michigan, if you are convicted of a first offense drunk driving, known as “Operating While Intoxicated” (OWI), in your personal vehicle, you not only lose your regular driver’s license, but also your commercial driver’s license. For a first offense, your CDL will be suspended for one year. If you have any subsequent arrests and convictions, your CDL may be revoked for a minimum of 10 years.

Luckily, sometimes a DUI can be challenged based upon the reliability of the chemical test or the method by which it was taken or even the legality of the stop. An experienced lawyer can also fight the drunk driving offense and get it reduced to a non-drinking offense. While a reckless or careless driving offense would still result in losing your CDL for a year if you were driving your commercial vehicle, the suspension would only last 90 days if you were using your personal vehicle when arrested, allowing you to continue working.

If you are a truck driver or delivery person with a CDL and have been arrested for a driving under the influence, please contact our Okemos DUI defense attorneys at White Law PLLC today. Our firm will do everything we can to get a result that does not involve the loss of your commercial driver’s license.

Call (517) 316-1195 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Call or text (517) 316-1195 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

DUI Blog Posts:

Michigan’s “Super Drunk” Driving Law: What You Need to Know

It’s been a little over five years since Michigan’s “Super Drunk” Driving Law took effect. The law specifically targets drivers with a blood alcohol content (“BAC”) of 0.17 or higher.

Michigan’s OWI and DUI Laws

As summer winds down and students head back to school this fall, East Lansing and surrounding areas can expect crowded bars and a lively night life. Of course, if alcohol consumption figures into

Mistakes to Avoid When Getting Your License Back

Being convicted of multiple moving violations or for driving under the influence (DUI) in Michigan will likely result in the temporary loss of your driver’s license. As important as it may be to

4 Common Mistakes Made in Michigan Driver’s License Restoration Cases

Getting your driving privileges back after a DUI or OWI arrest can be a long and arduous process. It is critical to have a good understanding of the proceedings necessary to get you back on the road.