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  • By: John Abel, Esq.
The Potential Impacts Of A DUI Charge On Your Commercial Driverโ€™s License

In this article, you can discoverโ€ฆ

  • What happens to your CDL immediately after a DUI arrest.
  • Whether a DUI in your personal vehicle could impact your CDL.
  • How to help protect your CDL and career after a DUI arrest.

Q: What Are The Immediate Penalties For A CDL Holder Facing A DUI In California?

A: Upon arrest for a suspected DUI, your CDL license will be confiscated, and a temporary driving permit will be issued in its place. If you do not take action to request a DMV hearing within 10 days of your arrest, your CDL will be automatically suspended.

Be aware that for drivers of commercial vehicles, the legal BAC limit in California is 0.4%, half the BAC limit allowed for those driving a personal vehicle.

Q: Can A DUI In My Personal Vehicle Impact My California CDL?

A: Yes, if convicted, a first DUI in your personal vehicle can result in the suspension of your CDL for one year. A second DUI conviction in a personal vehicle can result in your CDL being permanently revoked, meaning you can no longer drive a commercial vehicle in California.

Your employer may also be automatically notified of any DUI convictions, potentially impacting your employment.

Attorney John Abel got 5.0 Start Reviews

Attorney John Abel is a determined, practiced DUI defense attorney serving California. Since 2004, heโ€™s helped CDL holders just like you protect their careers, futures, and licenses after a DUI arrest.

Have questions or in need of legal representation? Reach out to the John Abel Law Office for an initial consultation today.

Call Now At -ย (559) 321-1977

Q: How Does A DUI Conviction In California Affect Out-Of-State CDL Holders?

A: A DUI conviction in California could potentially impact your out-of-state CDL. A DUI conviction in California will certainly show up on your record, and an employer in your home state could readily learn of your conviction.

Donโ€™t take any chances โ€“ secure the help of a DUI lawyer and work to prevent a conviction in California from impacting your career.

Q: What Are The Potential Penalties For California CDL Holders Who Are Convicted Of A DUI?

A: DUI penalties for commercial drivers are quite harsh. If convicted, you will lose your CDL for one year. You could also face jail time of up to six months, fines of up to $1,000, and other penalties.

Beyond the legal ramifications, a DUI conviction can make it difficult or even impossible to obtain future commercial driving work โ€“ significantly impacting your earning potential and career.

Q: What Steps Should Commercial Drivers Take After A DUI Arrest To Protect Their CDL?

A: The first step you should take is to reach out to an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately. Your attorney can begin to review the background of your stop and arrest, possibly finding evidence that can help see the charges against you lowered or dismissed.

Remember, California CDL DUI laws allow you only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing, making it crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Q: Can DUI Education Or Treatment Programs Help Mitigate The Consequences Of A DUI Charge For California CDL Holders?

A: Possibly. If you enroll in and complete a DUI education or treatment program, this could help demonstrate your willingness to take responsibility for your actions, potentially reducing the penalties you face. For the best possible outcome, it is important to allow a DUI defense attorney to advocate for you as you complete these programs.

Attorney John Abel got 5.0 Start Reviews

Attorney John Abel is a determined, practiced DUI defense attorney serving California. Since 2004, heโ€™s helped CDL holders just like you protect their careers, futures, and licenses after a DUI arrest.

Have questions or in need of legal representation? Reach out to the John Abel Law Office for an initial consultation today.

Call Now At -ย (559) 321-1977

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