The Impact of a DUI on Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL)

Commercial drivers keep goods, services, and people moving across Michigan and the nation. If you’re a CDL holder, a DUI conviction carries serious consequences that can jeopardize not only your ability to drive commercially but your entire livelihood.

In Michigan, commercial drivers are held to a higher legal standard, and even a first-time DUI offense can lead to significant penalties, including license suspension, job loss, and long-term impacts on employment opportunities. This article explores the effects of a DUI on CDL holders and outlines the path toward driver’s license restoration in Michigan.

CDL Holders Face Stricter DUI Laws in Michigan

While most Michigan drivers are considered legally intoxicated with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, commercial drivers are subject to a much lower threshold. If you hold a CDL, a BAC of just 0.04% while operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) is enough to warrant a DUI charge. In addition, if you refuse a chemical test under Michigan’s implied consent law can also result in administrative penalties and license suspension.

Immediate Consequences for CDL Drivers

A DUI arrest or conviction can trigger immediate and severe consequences for commercial drivers such as:

1. Disqualification of CDL

Under federal and Michigan law, a first-time DUI conviction (or refusal to submit to a chemical test) results in a one-year disqualification of a commercial driver’s license. If the driver was transporting hazardous materials at the time of the offense, the disqualification period extends to three years.

A second DUI offense results in a lifetime disqualification from holding a CDL, although reinstatement may be possible after ten years under limited circumstances.

2. Loss of Employment

Many employers in the transportation and logistics industries have zero-tolerance policies for DUI offenses. Even a pending charge may be enough for an employer to suspend or terminate employment. With a disqualified CDL, a commercial driver becomes ineligible for most driving jobs, making income replacement extremely difficult.

3. Impact on Personal Driving Privileges

In addition to CDL disqualification, a DUI conviction also affects a person’s standard (non-commercial) driver’s license, which can be suspended or revoked. This complicates day-to-day responsibilities like commuting, attending court-ordered programs, or supporting a family.

Driver’s License Restoration in Michigan: A Path Forward 

For CDL holders seeking to rebuild their careers after a DUI, understanding the process for driver’s license restoration in Michigan is essential.

Step 1: Understand the Disqualification Period

Before applying for CDL reinstatement, the disqualification or revocation period must be fully served. For first-time offenders, this is typically one year, but reinstatement is not automatic. Drivers must actively pursue restoration through the appropriate legal channels.

Step 2: Seek Legal Counsel

Navigating Michigan’s restoration process is not easy—especially for commercial drivers. An experienced driver’s license restoration attorney can help gather the necessary documentation, represent the driver at a Secretary of State hearing, and advocate for full reinstatement.

Step 3: Demonstrate Rehabilitation

Michigan’s Secretary of State requires evidence of sobriety and rehabilitation, especially if your DUI involved substance abuse or if your driver’s license was revoked (as opposed to suspended). This may include letters of support, proof of treatment, and clean drug/alcohol testing results.

Step 4: Attend the Restoration Hearing

At the hearing, the driver must convince a hearing officer that they are no longer a risk to public safety and have maintained sobriety. A compelling case—backed by documentation and legal representation—can significantly improve the chances of license restoration.

CDL Reinstatement After a DUI

It’s important to note that CDL reinstatement is separate from restoring a standard driver’s license. Even after successfully restoring personal driving privileges, a CDL holder must reapply for commercial driving status and satisfy federal and state regulations.

Some drivers may be eligible for reissuance of their CDL after meeting all restoration requirements and re-taking the necessary knowledge and skills tests. Others, particularly those with multiple offenses, may be permanently disqualified.

Safeguard Your CDL—And Your Future!

A DUI can be career-ending for commercial drivers in Michigan. If you’re a CDL holder facing DUI charges or license disqualification, don’t wait to get legal help. The path to driver’s license restoration in Michigan is possible—but only with the right strategy and experienced representation. Call us at (734) 263-2780 or schedule your consultation today!