Can You Be a Commercial Driver With a DUI on Your Record

No one wants a driving infraction against their record, especially if driving is how you make a living. But alcohol-related offenses can be particularly damaging, jeopardizing your employment as a commercial driver and threatening your financial security.

DUIs are severe offenses and require the guidance of a knowledgeable team in Greeley, Colorado that can build a robust and compelling case that seeks a personalized outcome best suited to your situation. Never go into a situation that can determine your future without the help you need.

Colorado Law on Blood Alcohol Content Limits

Colorado has explicit descriptions of its DUI laws. However, blood alcohol content is determined by multiple factors.

Alcohol affects everyone differently. Gender, weight, and even the amount of food you have eaten can affect blood alcohol content. Knowing your body’s reaction to alcohol can help prevent DUI.

• All 50 states have established a threshold of .08% or higher blood alcohol content (BAC) as the legal definition for DUI or driving under the influence.
• In Colorado, .05% to .79% is considered driving while ability impaired (DWAI).
• Even with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of less than .05%, you can still be arrested for DUI if the officer notes signs of impairment such as erratic driving, swerving, and drifting in and out of lanes.
• Colorado holds stricter laws for individuals possessing a commercial driver’s license. A blood alcohol content of .04% or higher is considered driving under the influence.
• Additionally, Colorado has severe penalties for driving with a blood alcohol content of .15% or higher.

DUIs and Commercial Driver’s License Rules

State laws apply to commercial drivers charged with DUI, and federal laws are also in place. When you are charged with a DUI, your license will is revoked, and the number of offenses determines the length of revocation.

• A first-offense DUI is punishable with one-year revocation of your license. The loss of your commercial driving privilege increases to three years if the materials transported at the time of the offense are hazardous.
• Second-offense DUIs would permanently revoke your commercial driver’s license if both offenses occurred on or after October 1, 2005.
• After ten years of revocation, your commercial driver’s license may be reinstated if you voluntarily and successfully complete a state-approved alcohol rehabilitation program.

In Colorado, you are permitted to possess a commercial driver’s license if you are under the age of 21. This is not allowed by federal law, so the CDL is only valid in-state. In addition to established laws, Colorado’s excess BAC underage CDL laws apply to drivers under the age of 21, establishing a zero-tolerance policy for DUI.

Proven Representation in Greeley, CO

DUIs can potentially ruin a driving career and cost thousands of dollars. Restrictions on personal driving privileges can also influence CDL reinstatements. With both state and federal laws in place for commercial drivers, having an advanced knowledge base allows us to offer guidance toward the best possible outcome.

When you take action and contact McAdams Law Office, DUI & Criminal Defense Attorneys in Greeley, Colorado, you can rest knowing that our team will treat you respectfully. We work to help you overcome legal challenges, finding the best outcomes under the law.