Will a dwi in a commercial vehicle in 2010 affect getting a new cdl in 2025?
A DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in a commercial vehicle in 2010 can affect your ability to obtain a new Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in 2025, but whether it will depends on several factors:
1. Federal Regulations
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):
- A first offense DWI in a commercial vehicle results in a 1-year disqualification of the CDL.
- A second offense results in a lifetime disqualification (though some states allow reinstatement after 10 years under specific conditions).
Since your offense was in 2010 and it’s now 2025, that’s 15 years later, which means:
- If it was your only DWI offense and you’ve complied with all terms (suspensions, treatment, reinstatement procedures), you’re likely eligible for a new CDL.
- If it was your second DWI (even if the first was in a personal vehicle), you might face lifetime disqualification.
2. State Regulations
Each state can impose stricter rules. Some states:
- Require a longer waiting period.
- Deny re issuance based on their own point or violation systems.
- Require substance abuse evaluations, hearings, or SR-22 insurance filings.
3. Employment Considerations
Even if you’re eligible for a CDL:
- Employers may be hesitant to hire drivers with any DWI history, especially in a commercial vehicle.
- Some insurance companies will not cover drivers with a DWI, making hiring difficult.
What You Should Do:
- Check with your state’s DMV or licensing authority – ask about your eligibility for CDL issuance or re issuance.
- Request your driving record – ensure the DWI and any disqualifications are properly recorded and cleared.
- Consult an attorney – especially if there are questions about disqualifications or how the offense is categorized.
