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Commercial Driver License (CDL) disqualifications

When can a CDL be suspended, revoked, or disqualified?

What do I need to do if my CDL is suspended, revoked, canceled, or disqualified?

  • Notify your employer:
    • If your commercial driver license is suspended, revoked, or canceled; or if you're disqualified from operating a commercial vehicle. This must be completed before the end of the business day following the day of the notice.
    • In writing, of all traffic convictions within 30 days of the conviction. This includes convictions related to your private automobile as well as a commercial vehicle.
  • Notify the Department of Licensing in writing, of all out-of-state traffic convictions within 30 days of the conviction. Complete an Out-of-State Traffic Conviction Report for each conviction and send to:
    Citations Unit
    Department of Licensing
    PO Box 9030
    Olympia, Washington 98507-9030

What happens if I have an out-of-state CDL?

If you have a CDL from a state other than Washington and lose your privilege to drive a commercial vehicle in Washington, you can't:

  • Get a Washington CDL until you have re-qualified in this state.
  • Drive a commercial vehicle in Washington, even with a license from another state.

We'll also notify your home state, and they may take action against your driver license.

Can I get a restricted driver license while my CDL is suspended?

You can't get an Occupational/Restricted License (ORL) to drive a commercial motor vehicle. However, you may apply for one to operate a non-commercial motor vehicle. For more information, see Restricted driver licenses.

Implied consent — Refusing to test

Any person who holds a CDL is deemed to have consented to any testing required by any state or jurisdiction. Driving a commercial motor vehicle implies consent. (See federal rule 49 CFR 383.72.)

If any level of alcohol is detected, law enforcement can place a commercial driver out-of-service for 24 hours. It's illegal to operate a commercial vehicle with any alcohol in your system.

Questions? Need help?

Call us: 360.902.3900 (TTY: Call 711)

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