CDL disqualifications: Committing 2 or more serious traffic offenses arising from separate incidents within a 3-year period of time
What are serious traffic offenses?
- Speeding 15 miles per hour or more above the posted limit.
- Reckless driving.
- Any traffic violation, other than parking violations, that results in a fatal accident or collision.
- Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a commercial driver license or without the proper endorsement.
- Negligent driving.
- Following too closely.
- Failing to stop.
- Failing to yield the right of way.
- Driving too fast for conditions.
- Improper lane change or travel.
- Improper overtaking on the right or left.
- Improper driving to the left of center of the roadway.
- Texting while driving a commercial motor vehicle
- Using a cell phone while driving a commercial motor vehicle
Do offenses in non-commercial vehicles count?
Offenses in both non-commercial and commercial vehicles count, but the offenses that trigger the disqualification involve a commercial vehicle, or a conviction of reckless driving in either vehicle.
How long will my license be disqualified?
- 2 serious traffic offenses: 60 days
- 3 serious traffic offenses: 120 days
How do I re-qualify?
- Once the disqualification is released, visit a driver licensing office location for a new CDL. If you:
- don't, your CDL is invalid.
- haven't held a CDL for 1 year or more, you'll need to complete all the steps to getting a CDL.
- For a hazardous materials endorsement, pass a separate knowledge test.
- Pay a $35 re-qualification fee.
Can I appeal the disqualification?
You may request an administrative review.
Related laws
- RCW 46.25.090(5):Disqualification — Grounds for, period of — Records.
- RCW 46.25.010(18): Definitions.
- WAC 308-100-130: Serious traffic violations.
Questions? Need help?
Call us: 360.902.3900 (TTY: Call 711)