How a DWI Conviction Affects Your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Texas

If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Texas, a DWI arrest isn’t just inconvenient—it can be career-ending. The penalties for CDL holders are far more severe than for regular drivers, even if the DWI occurred in your personal vehicle.

At The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C., we regularly defend commercial drivers throughout East Texas facing DWI charges, and we understand how much is on the line. Your job, your livelihood, and your future depend on how your case is handled from day one.

CDL Holders Are Held to a Higher Standard

Commercial drivers operate larger, more dangerous vehicles and often carry passengers or hazardous materials. Because of this, federal and state laws impose stricter rules on CDL holders:

• The legal BAC limit for CDL holders is 0.04% (half the standard 0.08% for non-commercial drivers) while operating a commercial vehicle.

• DWI charges in a personal vehicle still affect your CDL status.

• A conviction can result in immediate disqualification, even if you weren’t driving a commercial vehicle at the time.

First DWI Conviction: CDL Consequences

If you are convicted of DWI in Texas (even as a first offense), and you hold a commercial license:

• Your CDL will be disqualified for at least 1 year

• If you were transporting hazardous materials at the time: 3-year disqualification

• You may also face standard DWI penalties (jail, fines, probation, license suspension for your Class C license)

Once disqualified, you must reapply for your CDL after the suspension period—and many employers won’t rehire drivers with a DWI on their record.

Second DWI: Lifetime CDL Disqualification

If you’re convicted of a second DWI, your commercial driver’s license will be disqualified for life—with only a slim chance of reinstatement after 10 years (and only if you meet strict eligibility requirements and the offense was not hazardous-material-related).

DWI Arrest Alone Can Trigger CDL Suspension

Even before you’re convicted, your CDL may be suspended if:

• You refuse a chemical test (breath or blood)

• You fail a chemical test (even outside a CMV)

This is called an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) and is handled separately from the criminal case. You have 15 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to fight the suspension.

What About Occupational Licenses?

Unlike Class C drivers, CDL holders in Texas are not eligible for an occupational or hardship license for commercial driving during suspension. That means if your CDL is disqualified, you cannot legally work in any commercial driving job until the suspension is lifted.

How We Defend CDL Holders in DWI Cases

At The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C., we work aggressively to:

• Challenge the legality of the traffic stop or arrest

• Suppress invalid chemical test results

• Negotiate for reductions to charges that don’t impact your CDL (such as reckless driving or obstruction of a roadway)

• Represent you at your ALR hearing to fight administrative disqualification

• Help you maintain employment during the case process where possible

If you drive for a living, your defense needs to reflect the higher stakes involved.

Call The Law Office of Alex Tyra, P.C. For Your Free Consultation

One DWI conviction could cost you your entire career as a commercial driver. If you’ve been arrested—whether in a big rig or your personal vehicle—don’t wait. Let us fight to protect your license, your record, and your livelihood.

Call (903) 753-7499 today for your free consultation with a DWI defense attorney who understands the impact on commercial drivers and knows how to protect what matters most.