If you have a DUI on your record and are considering a commercial driving career, you’re likely wondering: Can you get a CDL with a DUI in Colorado? It’s a fair question that brings up legitimate concerns about eligibility, timing, and long-term consequences.
At The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how stressful it can be to navigate life after a DUI, especially when your livelihood may depend on it. Whether you’re pursuing your first commercial driver’s license (CDL) or already hold one and are worried about a recent DUI charge, we’re here to help you understand the road ahead.
Can You Get a CDL with a DUI?
Yes, it is possible to get a commercial driver’s license in Colorado after a DUI. The full answer to this question depends on timing, the specifics of your conviction, and how you respond legally. However, there are restrictions, waiting periods, and added requirements. A DUI conviction does not automatically disqualify you from holding or applying for a CDL, but it does make the process more complicated.
Colorado follows federal guidelines issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which imposes strict rules for commercial drivers. These rules are enforced by the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
How Long Do You Have to Wait to Get a CDL After a DUI?
If your DUI resulted in a license suspension or revocation, you must first wait until your regular driver’s license is reinstated. Only then can you apply or reapply for a CDL.
The waiting period generally looks like this:
- For a first DUI conviction—your CDL is disqualified for one year; and
- For a second DUI conviction—a lifetime disqualification may apply or reinstatement may be possible after 10 years under limited conditions.
The one-year disqualification applies even if you were not driving a commercial vehicle at the time of the offense. The law treats any DUI conviction seriously when it comes to commercial driving privileges.
What Is the CDL DUI Limit in Colorado?
For non-commercial drivers, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in Colorado is 0.08%. But if you’re driving a commercial vehicle, the limit is lower. The CDL DUI limit is just 0.04% BAC, as defined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and enforced by Colorado law.
If you test at or above this threshold while operating a commercial vehicle, you can be charged with DUI and face immediate disqualification. Even refusing a chemical test can result in suspension.
Can You Get a Job with a DUI on Your Record?
While getting a CDL after a DUI is possible, finding employment can be more challenging. Many trucking companies conduct thorough background checks and may have strict hiring policies regarding DUI convictions.
Some employers may:
- Reject applicants with any DUI history,
- Require a certain number of years to pass since the conviction before they will hire you, or
- Accept candidates only after successful completion of alcohol education or treatment programs.
The more time that has passed and the cleaner your record has been since the offense, the better your chances.
What If You Already Have a CDL and Get a DUI?
If you already have a commercial driver’s license and are convicted of DUI, you face serious consequences that can affect both your current job and future career prospects. These penalties include immediate disqualification of your CDL and a one-year minimum suspension, even if the DUI occurred while driving a personal vehicle. If you were transporting hazardous materials at the time, the suspension could be even longer. A second DUI offense could lead to a lifetime disqualification from holding a CDL.
Many trucking companies have zero-tolerance policies when it comes to impaired driving. As a result, a conviction may lead to termination and make it much more difficult to find another position in the industry. Insurance companies may also refuse to cover drivers with a recent DUI, limiting employer options even further.
It’s critical to respond quickly and seek legal help if you are a CDL holder facing DUI charges. Early intervention could help reduce the penalties or identify defenses that may preserve your livelihood.
Steps to Take After a DUI If You Want a CDL
If you’re hoping to get or keep a CDL after a DUI, it’s important to act quickly and strategically. Consider these steps:
- Speak with a DUI attorney immediately. The sooner you get legal advice, the better your chances of protecting your driving privileges.
- Request a DMV hearing within seven days. Colorado law gives you just one week to challenge your administrative license suspension.
- Comply with all court and DMV requirements. Completing alcohol education, treatment, and probation conditions can help restore your license.
- Be honest with potential employers. If asked about your record, explain what happened and what steps you’ve taken to move forward.
These steps can help demonstrate your responsibility and commitment to turning things around.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Whether you’re defending against a first-time DUI or trying to get back on the road after a conviction, the stakes are higher when your career depends on your license. Having an experienced attorney can make a real difference in your outcome.
At The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC, we:
- Understand how DUI law intersects with CDL eligibility,
- Provide clear guidance on timelines and reinstatement options,
- Fight to protect your driving record and reduce penalties, and
- Treat your case with professionalism, empathy, and urgency.
We’re proud to help drivers across Northern Colorado, including Loveland, Fort Collins, Berthoud, Estes Park, and Longmont.
CDL Dreams? We’ll Help You Get Back on the Road
So, can you get a CDL with a DUI in Colorado? The answer is yes, but it won’t be easy without the right help.
The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC is committed to helping clients overcome DUI setbacks and pursue meaningful opportunities. Attorney Sean P. Harrell brings over a decade of experience and a personal approach that puts your future first. We offer same-week consultations, 24/7 live phone answering, flexible payments, and real guidance rooted in Colorado law.
Call us or schedule your confidential consultation online today to learn more about how and when you can get a CDL with a DUI in Colorado. Let’s get you back behind the wheel and in control of your life.
