A DUI charge can derail anyone’s life. However, the stakes are considerably higher for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders. When a professional driver is arrested for a DUI, their livelihood is on the line.
What Constitutes a DUI Offense
As CDL holders spend more time than most others on the road, they are held to stricter safety standards. A professional driver will be charged with a DUI if they have a blood alcohol content reading of .04 or higher. Additionally, a commercial driver cannot under Florida law:
- Drive while under the influence of alcohol
- Drive while under the influence of drugs
- Refuse a chemical test while driving a commercial vehicle
- Drive a commercial vehicle while possessing a controlled substance
If a commercial driver commits any of the above infractions, they will face the associated penalties for that DUI offense. In addition, they will be disqualified from driving a commercial vehicle for one year. This license revocation could last for up to three years if the driver was transporting hazardous substances.
Commercial drivers who are convicted of a second DUI will be permanently disqualified from driving a commercial vehicle.
Can I Get a CDL if I Have a DUI on My Record?
Once convicted of a DUI, an individual will be ineligible to apply for a CDL for one year, or three years if the offense occurred in a hazmat vehicle. If an individual is convicted of a second DUI, they will face a lifetime disqualification from receiving a CDL.
Still, while an individual could receive a CDL with a DUI on their record, their ability to find work will be hindered. Employers are generally wary to hire drivers with a messy criminal and driving record.
Ridesharing Drivers
While ridesharing drivers do not need a CDL, their career will also be jeopardized by a DUI conviction.
Uber conducts a background check that includes an individual’s criminal record as well as their driving record. The company’s official policy declares that they will consider the past seven years of an applicant’s driving record when determining whether that individual may drive for Uber. However, if the DUI was a felony, it will automatically disqualify a driver from working with Uber.
Protect your career and your future. Contact Hubbs Law Firm to defend your DUI charge today.
Disclaimer:
Please note that by reading this blog you are not entering into an attorney-client relationship with Hubbs Law, P.A. This blog only provides general legal information. Every case is unique and you should request a consultation to ensure that you are getting the correct legal advice for your specific case.