In Connecticut, drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) are held to a higher standard than those that hold a regular driver’s license. Because of this, typical driving offenses can carry much higher penalties for CDL holders than for regular drivers. On top of Connecticut state guidelines, keep in mind that there are also federal guidelines that the Connecticut DMV enforces.

A range of offenses that could cause a CDL holder to lose their license. When a person loses their CDL license, they will receive a suspension or disqualification notice from the DMV. This notifies the license holder of their option for a hearing. You can learn more about CDL offenses, penalties, and hearings on this page.

CDL Offenses

There are many different types of CDL offenses that a person can face. One of the most serious offenses is driving while under the influence (DUI). In Connecticut, commercial drivers can’t operate a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol content above 0.04%. If they do, they can be charged with DUI. Other major offenses include:

• Getting into an accident and leaving the scene before authorized to do so by emergency personnel.
• Operating a commercial vehicle after receiving a suspension or revocation of the license.
• Negligently operating a commercial vehicle.
• Causing a fatality due to negligent driving.
• Using the CDL to commit a crime.

Penalties

All of the above-mentioned violations could lead to harsh penalties. Penalties might include a license suspension or revocation. For a first offense, the penalty is typically a CDL license suspension of up to one year. A second offense usually leads to a license suspension for life. In addition, the court can impose steep fines for major violations and may even impose jail time in some situations. This will depend on individual circumstances. Although second offenses can lead to a revocation for life, the CDL holder usually has the ability to apply for reinstatement after a certain period of time. In most cases, this can happen after 10 years have elapsed. If you believe your CDL has been suspended or revoked, you can look up your driving record. Doing so gives you information about your driver’s license status.

Fighting CDL suspensions and revocations involves a lot of paperwork and requirements. There are also certain requirements that Connecticut requires before CDL reinstatement including expiration of the disqualification, paying fines, and counseling. In addition, you could attend a CDL hearing if you face a suspension or revocation of this license. The hearing will determine if your license gets suspended or revoked. If you have a CDL hearing, it is important to properly prepare a defense in order to give you the best chance of keeping your license.

Getting Help

If you face a CDL license suspension or revocation, this could have significant impacts on your life and job. One way that you can avoid a suspension or argue for lesser penalties is by scheduling a CDL suspension hearing. Making your case will give you the best chance of arguing for lesser penalties. If you need help with your hearing, contact our office.