We know your CDL is your livelihood, and when something threatens that license—like a ticket, accident, or suspension—you need answers fast. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to address some of the most common concerns we hear from commercial drivers across the country.
Yes—but it depends. Not every accident results in a CDL suspension, but your job and license are always on the line when you’re involved in a crash. Key factors that determine the outcome include:
In any accident involving a fatality or bodily injury, the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) requires immediate drug and alcohol testing, and a positive result will lead to an automatic suspension of your CDL—and the loss of your job. Even in minor accidents, it is likely your employer will require immediate drug and alcohol testing, and a positive result would mean immediate job loss. In more serious situations, such as vehicular manslaughter or leaving the scene of an accident, you could face a lifetime disqualification.
If you have a clean record and the accident is not serious, you may be able to keep both your license and your job. But every incident stays on your record for at least 7 years, and a second violation within three years could push you into suspension territory.
💡 Tip: Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Drivers Legal Plan® immediately after an accident to protect your CDL.
Getting a ticket as a CDL holder is very different from getting one in a personal vehicle. You’re held to a higher standard, and every violation puts your career at risk.
Even minor offenses can hurt your record if not challenged. Drivers Legal Plan® is built to fight CDL tickets, keep points off your record, and give you the best chance of avoiding suspension.
Your Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) score is tracked by the FMCSA and reflects your history of violations, inspections, and accidents. Carriers use this data—and your MVR—to decide if you’re a hiring risk. A suspension damages both, potentially costing you your job or future opportunities.
The penalties for CDL violations depend on your state, but certain serious violations can immediately impact your CDL:
If it’s your first offense, you may avoid suspension, but a second violation in three years can trigger a 60-day suspension, and a third offense can result in 120 days or more.
Before paying for any ticket, call Drivers Legal Plan®. Our experienced CDL defense attorneys work in your ticket’s jurisdiction and can often get charges reduced or dismissed.
A CDL traffic attorney understands the nuances of transportation law, which vary by state and offense. Here’s what we do:
We represent our members for a flat fee, and there’s no limit to how many violations we’ll cover. Our legal team has helped over 400,000 drivers across the country protect their CDLs.
Drivers Legal Plan® gives you 24/7 legal protection in any vehicle you drive. Just call us, and we’ll assign an attorney to your case immediately.
To reinstate a suspended CDL, you’ll need to meet both federal FMCSA standards and the requirements of the state that issued your license. While the process varies, common steps include:
1. Waiting out the suspension period
2. Paying reinstatement fees (state and federal)
3. Satisfying all court or state requirements, such as completing driver training or courses
4.Passing the knowledge and/or skills test again, if required
Reinstatement can be expensive and time-consuming, but with legal support, you may be able to reduce fees, limit penalties, and get back on the road faster.
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