Charged with DWI as a Commercial Driver in Texas? Your Career Is on the Line
As a commercial driver, your license isn’t just a plastic card—it’s your livelihood. A single DWI charge can derail years of hard work, cost you your CDL, and leave you scrambling to find a path forward. At Christian & Nisbet, we understand what’s at stake when a commercial driver is accused of driving while intoxicated—and we know how to fight for your future.
CDL DWI Laws Are Stricter Than Standard Texas DWI Laws
If you’re pulled over in a commercial vehicle, you can be arrested for DWI if your BAC is .04% or higher—half the limit for non-commercial drivers. And even if you're driving your personal vehicle at the time of arrest, your CDL is still at risk.
Key Consequences for CDL Holders
A DWI conviction—regardless of vehicle type—can trigger:
1-year CDL disqualification for a first offense
Lifetime CDL ban for a second offense
Disqualification for refusal to submit to chemical testing
Immediate employment loss or contract termination
Zero tolerance from DOT-regulated employers
And unlike standard drivers, there’s often no occupational CDL option during suspension. If your CDL is suspended, you can’t drive commercially—period.
Recent Developments Affecting CDL Drivers (2023–2025)
Increased federal reporting: Employers must report DWI and failed drug/alcohol tests to the FMCSA Clearinghouse, which permanently documents violations.
Expanded Clearinghouse checks: All CDL employers are required to run annual checks on drivers, making it harder to move past a single mistake.
Lower tolerance policies: Many carriers now fire drivers even for first offenses—regardless of case outcome—due to insurance and liability pressure.
The deck is stacked higher than ever. That’s why your defense needs to be aggressive from day one.
How We Defend CDL DWI Charges
We treat every CDL case like what it is: high stakes. Here's how we fight back:
1. Challenge the Traffic Stop
Was the stop lawful? If the officer lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause, we move to suppress all resulting evidence—including breath or blood tests.
2. Scrutinize the Test Results
We review calibration records, lab protocols, and storage conditions. If your BAC result is questionable, we put it on trial—not you.
3. Examine Employer Policy Compliance
If testing or discipline didn’t follow DOT protocols, we can use that to your advantage both in court and in employment appeals.
4. Negotiate License Protections
Even if a conviction seems likely, we explore legal pathways to avoid full CDL suspension or long-term disqualification.
5. Keep the Clearinghouse Clean (If Possible)
If your charge is reduced, dismissed, or sealed, we guide you through the Clearinghouse reporting process and help rebuild your record.
What to Do Right Now
Do not admit fault to your employer or officers
Do not refuse testing without understanding the penalties
Immediately request an ALR hearing to fight suspension
Secure any dashcam, GPS, or ELD data that may support your case
Contact a defense lawyer experienced in CDL and DOT cases
Final Thoughts
You’ve worked too hard to lose everything over one accusation. Whether you were pulled over unfairly, misjudged by an officer, or simply made a mistake, you still have rights. We fight to keep your license, your job, and your name.
When your future on the road is at risk… we’re that call.
