Commercial Drivers License & Driving While Intoxicated

A Missouri driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is subject to much stricter standards than a driver who does not possess a CDL. For instance, CDL drivers have a much lower blood alcohol content (BAC) threshold. A CDL driver is considered DWI if operating a commercial motor vehicle with a BAC of .04% or higher.

The consequences for CDL drivers are just as serious, a CDL driver could get their CDL disqualified for 1 year for a first offense of any of the following findings:

1. Driving a commercial vehicle with a BAC of .04% or higher; 
2. DWI or DWI with a BAC of .08% or above (commercial vehicle or not); and 
3. Refusing a chemical test.

If a CDL driver has a finding for any of the above offenses more than once, their CDL could be disqualified for life. It is important to remember that a CDL driver faces not only DWI penalties, but also the reality that a revocation of their license or dismissal of their CDL may result in losing their job. It is even more important for a CDL driver to contact an experienced DWI attorney like myself.