Trucking can be a lucrative career that allows you to spend a significant amount of time at home with your family. Although truck drivers must go on the road a lot, they also get extended periods of leave, which many families find far more valuable than the standard five-day workweek and two-day weekend.
Each state has its own requirements for obtaining a commercial driver license (CDL). In New York, for example, you must:
- Obtain a New York State driver license or possess a valid CDL from another state;
- Apply for a commercial learner permit (CLP), pay the application fee, and pass the written test for the particular CDL that you are pursuing;
- Prepare for the road test with a supervising driver who possesses a valid CDL license for the vehicle you use to practice; and
- Take the road test at least 14 days after receiving your CLP.
You will notice that the steps for obtaining a CDL in New York do not include a background check. Since you must have a valid New York State driver license or active CDL from another state in order to apply for your CLP, DMV authorities assume this will eliminate candidates who have serious traffic violations on their record.
If you are facing DUI charges and you’re concerned about the potential penalties hurting your ability to provide for your family, contact Darren DeUrso, Attorney at Law. Mr. DeUrso gives each case the individual attention that it deserves. Call 914-772-8614 to schedule a consultation with a criminal defense attorney in White Plains.
Can You Get a Commercial Driver License If You Have a DUI Conviction on Your Record?
As long as you have a valid driver license, you can apply for a CDL in the state of New York. Since a single DUI conviction does not result in a permanent license revocation, that means you can theoretically apply once your license suspension ends.
For most people whose record contains traffic violations, obtaining a CDL is not a problem; however, it can be challenging for them to secure a job that requires their CDL. Trucking companies must insure every one of their drivers, and a trucker with a DUI conviction is going to be more expensive to cover than one who has no record of traffic violations. As a result, most transportation companies are not inclined to hire people who have DUIs on their record.
Can I Lose My CDL If I Get a DUI after Obtaining It?
If you had a clean driving record when you first applied for you CDL but you are now facing DUI charges, there is a lot at stake. The state of New York holds commercial drivers to a higher standard than regular motorists, which means even if a commercial driver gets a DUI in a personal vehicle while off the clock, it can still affect his or her ability to drive professionally.
In general, commercial drivers will lose their CDL for at least one year if they commit a major traffic offense, like driving under the influence. Subsequent offenders face a lifetime disqualification.
If you are facing DUI charges in New York and you’re concerned about the impact a conviction could have on your professional driving career, contact Darren DeUrso, Attorney at Law. Mr. DeUrso will review the details of your case and help you determine the most strategic way to proceed.
Call 914-772-8614 to schedule a case evaluation with a DUI lawyer in White Plains. You can learn more about fighting DUI charges in New York by visiting USAttorneys.com.