Can You Get a Commercial Driver’s License with an OWI/DUI in Michigan?

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a specialized license that is required for people who wish to operate large vehicles like tractor-trailers, buses, and tanker trucks. Driving these vehicles demands a higher level of skill and responsibility due to their size and potential impact on public safety.

CDL holders are professional drivers who have demonstrated superior knowledge and driving skills. They have undergone rigorous training and testing to prove their advanced driving abilities and comprehensive understanding of traffic laws and regulations.

Obtaining a CDL is exciting, and jobs that require a CDL can be fun and fulfilling. If you are interested in pursuing commercial driving as a career path, you may wonder, “Can you get a commercial driver's license with a DUI on your record?”

How Do I Get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

CDL holders are held to higher safety standards and are subject to stricter regulations than non-commercial drivers. To earn a CDL, you must complete a specialized training program, pass a knowledge test that covers traffic laws and safe driving practices, and demonstrate proficiency in vehicle handling and maneuvering during a skills test.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has minimum training standards for people who wish to apply for a Commercial Driver’s License. Different standards apply depending on whether you are seeking a Class A or Class B CDL, an upgraded CDL, or an Endorsement for transporting hazardous materials or passengers or to drive a school bus.

To pursue a CDL, you must first complete “Entry-Level Driver Training” (ELDT) through a registered provider. Then, you must pass the CDL skills test. Upon successful completion, you can apply for a CDL endorsement by submitting a valid driver’s license and a completed Commercial Driver’s License Certification form at the Michigan Secretary of State’s office. You will also need to pass a knowledge test and a vision test. Additional steps may be required if you are applying for a hazardous materials endorsement, including a background check by the Transportation Security Administration.

What Happens If You Get an OWI/DUI with a CDL?

Under federal regulations, CDL holders are held to more rigid and strict standards than regular drivers, including a lower Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level to be convicted of drunk driving. CDL holders face more severe penalties if they are convicted of drunk driving. If you hold a CDL and are convicted of a DUI, you face significantly harsher penalties, including mandatory suspension of your commercial driver’s license for one year. A second OWI conviction will result in a lifetime CDL disqualification.

But what if you already have a DUI conviction and then apply for a Michigan commercial driver’s license?

What Disqualifies a Person from Getting a CDL in Michigan?

You must meet several specific qualifications to obtain a CDL in Michigan. You may be disqualified from obtaining a CDL if:

• You have prior convictions for certain offenses, including drunk driving, drug-related offenses, or violent crimes.
• You have a poor driving record, such as a history of traffic violations.
• You have certain medical conditions that could affect your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

Can You Get a CDL with a DUI/OWI Conviction?

In Michigan, you cannot obtain a CDL if you were convicted of DUI within the past two years. If you have a DUI conviction that is more than two years old, you can apply for a CDL; however, obtaining a CDL with a prior DUI conviction can be challenging. Seeking advice from an experienced DUI defense attorney can help you understand the requirements and whether you qualify.

Attorney Robert Elmen can review your situation to help you determine whether you qualify to apply for a CDL after a DUI conviction. He can also explain the nuances of Michigan CDL laws and how they apply to someone who wishes to obtain a CDL after a DUI conviction.

How Long After a DUI Conviction Do You Have to Wait to Get a CDL?

Someone convicted of DUI in Michigan faces a mandatory driver’s license suspension. The length of the driver’s license suspension can vary depending on the severity of the offense.

If you wish to obtain a CDL and have a prior DUI conviction, regardless of how long ago it was, it is wise to consult with an experienced attorney. Elmen Legal can review the specifics of your situation and help you understand the specific implications of a DUI conviction on your eligibility to get a CDL in Michigan.

How Do You Get Your CDL Back After a DUI?

If you are a CDL holder and were convicted of DUI, getting your CDL back can be a challenging process.

• You will need to complete the entire suspension period imposed by the court and the Department of Motor Vehicles.
• You may need to complete additional requirements, such as completing an alcohol or drug awareness program.
• There may be additional requirements, such as retaking the written test or road test to demonstrate your driving skills.

How Elmen Legal Can Help

Regardless of whether you are a CDL holder charged with DUI in Michigan or you have a prior DUI conviction and wish to obtain your CDL, Elmen Legal can evaluate your situation and help you explore your options.

Contact Elmen Legal Today

Call (734) 707-8915 or contact Elmen Legal today to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation and how Robert Elmen can help.