By Jeff Kennedy
What Happens to My CDL After a DWI?
The state of Texas takes DWIs seriously— and a first-time DWI can cause serious problems for professionals with a CDL.
Driving while over the BAC limit is illegal for private drivers in Texas. It is a career-ending problem for commercial drivers who rely on their CDLs to earn a living.
If you have been arrested, reach out to our DWI lawyer Jeff C. Kennedy for help. He can answer your questions and help you avoid a DWI conviction.
Here is what you can expect if you have a CDL and caught a DWI.
The Impact of a DWI on Your CDL in Texas
Keep in mind that we are here to help you avoid a conviction, but if you are convicted, this is what happens to your CDL after a DWI conviction in Texas.
The first example is a first-time DWI charge. They were caught driving a commercial vehicle above the legal BAC limit (.04 for CDL drivers; .08 for everybody else).
A first-time DWI conviction in Texas is a Class B misdemeanor. The consequences are:
- A potential 180-day stint in county jail
- Fines up to $2,000
- Possible suspension of your CDL (up to a year)
There are several factors taken into consideration regarding your CDL. For example, if you lose your hearing with the DPS (Department of Public Safety), you will very likely lose your CDL for one year.
Another example is a DWI while transporting toxic or hazardous materials, which results in a three-year suspension of your CDL. Finally, if you have a prior DWI conviction, you are at risk of losing your CDL permanently.
Keep in mind that legally hanging on to your CDL doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be able to get a job as a CDL driver in the future, as trucking companies tend to be cautious about hiring drivers with DWI records.
There Are Options If You Were Already Convicted of a CDL DWI
If you have been convicted of a DWI while driving a commercial vehicle, you should consider hiring a expunction or record sealing lawyer to help return to normalcy after a DWI conviction.
We Can Help You Avoid a Conviction. Call Now!
A DWI lawyer with The Law Firm of Jeff C. Kennedy can give you the best chance of clearing your name and avoiding the consequences of a DWI conviction.
Call us at 817-605-1010 or fill out the form below with your contact information to learn more.