5 Main Ways You Can Lose Your CDL

Passing your CDL test is a huge win — celebrate it! But hold up, your job isn’t over yet. Protecting that hard-earned license is the next big step. And that’s what we’ll be detailing in this post with possible reasons to lose CDL. So, how can you lose your CDL license? Some mistakes may leave you with a suspended or even revoked CDL — such a slam on the brakes of your career! We’ll be talking about these mistakes below, so stay tuned.

1. How to Lose CDL License: Must-Avoid Traffic Violations 

We’ve shared the offenses that officials view as serious below. Get hit with two serious violations in a three-year span, and you’re looking at a 60-day CDL suspension. Land a third one, and you might be off the road for 120 days. 

• Flying down the road at 15 mph over the limit.
• Tailgating or driving too close to other vehicles.
• Swerving between lanes without care.
• Reckless behavior behind the wheel.
• Allowing distractions to pull your focus off the road.
• Hopping into a commercial truck without your CDL on you.
• Breaking traffic laws that cause a deadly accident.

Some violations are even worse than the ones mentioned above. Mess up here, and face the horrible perspective of losing your CDL for an entire year — or even 3 years if you’re carrying hazardous materials. Watch out for these major violations:

• Driving while drunk or high.
• Turning down a test for narcotics.
• Running away after an accident.
• Operating a truck when your CDL is suspended or taken away.
• Causing a tragic accident by driving dangerously.
• Using your truck for committing a felony.

And that’s one of the answers to your “What can cause you to lose your CDL?” question. If you use your truck for illegal activities, like drug or human trafficking, say goodbye to your CDL for good! With all that said, do follow the CDL rules religiously if you’re on a mission to keep points to lose CDL at bay.

2. Alcohol and Drug-Related CDL Disqualifications: Do You Lose CDL with DUI?

The answer to this question is the obvious “Yes”, and these rules are very strict: if you’re caught with a drink in hand, even in your personal car, you could be sidelined.

And get this: your CDL could be on the chopping block even if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is below the legal limit of 0.08. Hit 0.04 or higher, and you could be facing a suspension for a few months to a year for your first slip-up. And if you mess up again or you’re transporting dangerous goods while a little tipsy, you may lose your CDL for years or even for good. That’s a detour you definitely don’t want, so keep your head clear and know those CDL guidelines.

3. CDL Disqualification Due to Railroad-Highway Grade Crossing Violations

Ignore warning signs or try to beat a train — be ready for hefty fines or even losing your license. The rules are clear: always yield to trains and never block the tracks. Keep your cool and don’t rush — your CDL is at stake. You know those trains aren’t slowing down for anyone, so safety first, fun second!

4. Impact of Felony Convictions on Your CDL License

How can I lose my CDL license? Simple: through felony convictions. These legal troubles can seriously derail your trucking career. A felony can actually slam the door on your driving future. Depending on the crime, you may lose your CDL for life! We’ve covered how felonies affect your license below:

• Permanent Loss. Certain serious felonies may mean you can’t ever get your CDL back.
• Temporary Suspension. Others might just keep you off the road for a while.
• Job Limitations. Even if you keep your CDL, many companies may not hire drivers with felonies.

5. How to Lose a CDL License: Driving With an Outdated License

Drive a truck with an expired license and be ready for fines and possibly even losing your job. That’s why it’s crucial to renew your CDL on time — and here’s a quick guide for you: pass a medical exam, show your current CDL, pay some fees, and prove you’re legally in the US. Complete these steps before the CDL license expiration date and you are guaranteed to safely stay in the driver’s seat.

To Wrap Up: Better Safe Than Sorry

Protect your hard-earned CDL with passion — because keeping your license is as important as earning it. To continue cruising toward your trucking job missions, invariably stay informed about potential pitfalls. Always drive responsibly, steer clear of drugs and alcohol, obey traffic laws, and keep your license updated. Remember, your future on the road depends on your choices today. Stay sharp, follow the rules, and let nothing put the brakes on your career. No more lingering questions like “Can you lose your CDL?” in your life, because all the clarifications have been served up on a platinum platter for you in this post. And you are free to employ this knowledge in action.

FAQ

So, how can you lose CDL?

Briefly speaking, you can lose your CDL for zooming past speed limits, driving like a daredevil, or getting a DUI. Felony charges, ignoring railroad safety, or driving with an expired license can also put a stop to your trucking dreams. Follow the rules to keep cruising down the highway!

Can you lose CDL for speeding? 

Yes! Even a speeding ticket can cost you your commercial truck driving privileges — so busting the speed limit is just not worth it.

Do you lose your CDL if you have an accident? 

Yes, totally. The details of the accident stick to your record for three years. If the accident was serious enough, it could cost you your CDL altogether. 

Can you lose CDL for a drug test? 

You bet! If you have a CDL, passing every drug test is a must. You have to clear the test before you can hit the road, and surprise tests can pop up anytime. Fail at least once, and this may result in losing both your job and your CDL. 

What happens if you lose your CDL license?

If your CDL goes bye-bye, so does your ability to drive commercial vehicles. You might have to ask for limited driving rights for your personal car! A suspension can mess up your driving record and cost you your job. The moral of the story: stay safe and go the extra mile to keep your CDL if you want to avoid all these bumps.