How long will my license be disqualified?
Your license disqualification period is based on how long you've held a Commercial Driver License (CDL) and how many offenses you commit.
If you have been disqualified for 1 year or more or if you never held a CDL
Your disqualification lasts for 10 years or until the first 2 items needed to re-qualify (see below) are met, whichever comes first.
If you have 3 positive drug or alcohol tests in 5 years
You will be disqualified from holding a CDL for life.
How do I re-qualify?
You can't re-qualify from a lifetime disqualification.
To requalify from a temporary disqualification:
- Have an alcohol/drug assessment by a substance abuse professional (SAP)
- Provide evidence that you have successfully completed or participated in an approved alcohol/drug treatment or education program as recommended by the SAP
- Pass the CDL knowledge and driving tests
- For a hazardous materials endorsement, pass a separate knowledge test
- We also may require you to show us a letter from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stating you passed their background check
- Pay a $150 re-qualification fee and any licensing fees
Can I appeal the disqualification?
You can request an administrative review within 20 days of the date on your notice of disqualification letter. We will send you the form to request a review with your notice of disqualification. Learn more about requesting a hearing.
What issues will be considered at the hearing?
- Whether you were the person who took the drug or alcohol test
- Whether your employer has a safety program that meets federal motor carrier requirements
- Whether the officer or technician who performed the test accurately followed the procedures needed to certify test results
