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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

Questions? Need help?

Call us: 360.902.3900 (TTY: Call 711)

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