What happens if a CDL driver gets a ticket? If you’re a truck driver holding a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), getting a ticket on the road is more than just an inconvenience; it can threaten your job, your income, and your future in the industry. Unlike a personal vehicle citation, a moving violation as a professional driver carries serious consequences that extend far beyond a simple fine.
Whether it’s speeding, following too closely, or making an improper lane change, one CDL traffic ticket can set off a costly chain reaction, from increasing insurance rates to threatening driving eligibility. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve been pulled over and cited while operating a commercial vehicle.
6 Consequences of CDL Moving Violations
1. Citation and Fines for CDL Moving Violations
When you receive a moving violation, the first and most obvious consequence is the fine. These can range from $100 to several hundred dollars, depending on the offense and the state where the citation was issued. While the cost might seem manageable at first glance, paying the ticket is legally considered an admission of guilt. That admission sets in motion several administrative penalties that could have long-term repercussions on your CDL status.
Note that with every CDL violation, you accumulate points that could eventually lead to your CDL license being suspended. The cost of losing your license could far outweigh a few hundred dollars in fines. See below to learn more about the CDL moving violations’ point system.
2. Court Appearance Requirements After You Get a CDL Traffic Ticket
Many CDL holders are required to appear in court, especially if the violation is considered serious, such as excessive speeding (15+ mph over the limit), reckless driving, or lane violations. For drivers who are constantly on the road or live in a different state, this requirement can be both inconvenient and costly in terms of time off work.
However, you can have a qualified CDL lawyer appear in court for you. You should consider having a qualified attorney represent you, even if it does not require a court appearance. Regardless of how minor you think the offense may be, CDL violation points can add up and eventually impact your livelihood. Read below to learn how these legal points work.
3. CDL Points System Explained: More Points Increase Risk
Every moving violation typically results in points being added to your CDL. Each state has its own point system, and the number of points per violation can vary widely. For example, here’s a typical point system for speeding tickets:
- Minor speeding (1-10 MPH above the limit): 2 to 3 points
- 11-20 MPH above the speed limit: 4 points
- 21-30 MPH above the limit: 6 points
- 31-40 MPH above the limit: 8 points
Your points go much higher for more serious violations, such as reckless driving or following another vehicle too closely. “Excessive speeding” is considered “reckless driving” in some states. Some of these violations can result in an automatic suspension of your license.
If you accumulate too many points within a specific time period, you risk having your license suspended or disqualified. For example, in Texas, if you get four points in a 12-month period or seven points within 24 months, this can trigger a suspension. In Virginia, 12 points in a single year or 18 points in 24 months can result in serious penalties.
4. Higher Insurance Premiums From CDL Violations
Insurance companies see CDL violations as high-risk indicators. A single ticket can significantly increase your insurance premiums. It’s not uncommon to see hikes of 80% or more for serious infractions like reckless driving or speeding 25+ mph over the limit.
Plus, these increased rates don’t disappear overnight. In many cases, the premium increase stays with you for three years or longer.
Note that even a “minor” ticket should be taken seriously. While more major offenses can impact premiums compared to more minor CDL violations, less serious infractions can quickly add up to higher premiums.
5. Trucking Violations Affect Your CDL and Your Employment Status
The best way to protect your CDL and your driving career is to seek out legal counsel for a CDL moving violation, even for a minor speeding ticket. Here’s why: Carriers and fleet managers closely track their drivers’ Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs). Some have zero-tolerance policies for multiple violations or high-risk behavior. If you’re cited, you may face:
- Disciplinary action
- Termination
- Difficulty finding future employment
Even a single violation can put you on a watch list with your current employer or limit your ability to get hired elsewhere. Many companies only consider drivers with a clean record; one ticket could mean the difference between staying employed and sitting at home.
6. CDL Disqualification for Serious Violations
There are some CDL violations that go beyond points or insurance; some can trigger temporary or permanent CDL disqualification. Consequences of these serious violations include:
- Two serious violations in three years: 60-day disqualification
- Three serious violations in three years: 120-day disqualification
- Major offenses: Such as a DUI, using a commercial vehicle in a felony, or leaving the scene of an accident: 1-year to lifetime disqualification
Here are some examples of the most serious disqualifying offenses for CDL drivers, per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Note that the disqualification periods are determined by the offense and each driver’s record of prior convictions.
Offenses require a minimum disqualification of 60 days:
- Excessive speeding (15 mph or more over the limit)
- Reckless driving
- Following a vehicle too closely
- Making improper or erratic traffic lane changes
- Violations related to prohibited texting or using a handheld mobile telephone while driving a CMV
Offenses require a minimum disqualification of one year:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, as prescribed by state law
- Driving under the influence of a controlled substance
- Refusing to take an alcohol test (as required by implied consent laws or regulations)
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Causing a fatality through the negligent operation of a CMV
For any truck driver, these penalties are career-altering and potentially irreversible.
What Should You Do Next? Answers From CDL Lawyers
If you’ve been cited while driving a commercial vehicle, don’t risk your CDL by going it alone. The stakes are too high. Partnering with a nationwide law firm like Interstate Trucker gives you access to experienced attorneys in all 50 states who understand the specific legal landscape for CDL violations.
In addition to our nationwide CDL defense services, we can help you answer questions such as:
- What happens if I get a CDL ticket?
- How long does a CDL ticket stay on my record?
- How do I get my CDL back after a suspension?
From reducing or dismissing your charges to appearing in court on your behalf, Interstate Trucker fights for you to defend your license, your job, and your reputation — so you can keep moving forward. Visit www.interstatetrucker.com or call 1-800-333-DRIVE to speak with a legal specialist today.
