To launch a career as a truck driver, you will need to obtain a commercial driver’s license, or CDL. The federal government sets most rules for CDLs, though your license will be issued by your state DMV. There are a few issues that could disqualify you from obtaining a CDL. Talk to your truck driving school about qualifying for your CDL if you have any of these issues.
Outstanding Warrants
If you have outstanding warrants for felony charges, you will not be able to earn a CDL until the warrants are resolved. If you have warrants for traffic tickets, then you will be able to earn a CDL, though you may find it difficult to find employment as a driver until those warrants are resolved. The same is true for other kinds of misdemeanor warrants. You will be able to get your CDL, but finding employment may be difficult until you deal with the warrant.
Certain Felony Convictions
A felony conviction doesn’t always disqualify you from getting a CDL, but certain kinds of convictions will. Bribery, smuggling, arson, kidnapping, assault with intent to commit murder, extortion, and treason will all prevent you from getting a CDL based on federal laws, as well using a commercial vehicle to commit a felony or causing a fatality due to negligent vehicle operation. Some states have additional rules regarding felonies and CDLs, so check the rules in your area.
DUI
DUI convictions can make it hard to qualify for or renew a DUI. If you have been convicted of a DUI with a BAC of .04% or higher while driving a commercial vehicle, you can’t get or renew a CDL. Once you have a CDL, if you are convicted of operating any kind of vehicle with a BAC of .08% or greater, you will lose your CDL. If you have a DUI conviction that doesn’t fall into these categories, you may be able to get your CDL but could struggle to find employment.
Talk to an admissions rep at Phoenix Truck Driving School at Ft. Bliss to find out trucking could be the career for you. Dial (877) 206-8344 for more information.
