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A DWI Conviction Could Cost You Your CDL

A person convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) can lose his or her serialized Commercial Driving License (CDL). This penalty applies even if the person is convicted of DWI in a non-commercial vehicle. It also applies even if it’s the first time he or she has been convicted of DWI.

Federal rules insist that reporting DWI convictions isn’t just an employment issue but a public safety issue. Likewise, Minnesota DWI laws make it clear that those who drive a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) while under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances can face criminal penalties like imprisonment, fines, and court expenses,

DWI Penalties for CDL Holders

In every DWI case involving a CDL, careful planning and aggressive defense by an MN DWI attorney can increase the odds of securing a favorable outcome. Besides the driver losing the CDL, he or she may face jail time, steep fines, and other hidden consequences of a DWI conviction. In Minnesota, the fine is between $3,000 and $14,000. It’s not unusual for the state to require a person who had temporarily lost his or her CDL due to a DWI conviction to complete an alcohol education course before reinstating it.

The state can also require convicted CDL holders to complete community service — anywhere between 40 and 160 hours. A CDL holder can be subject to all these penalties whether he or she was convicted of DWI in a non-commercial vehicle or commercial truck. If the accident resulted in serious bodily injury or death to another person, then the commercial driver may face civil lawsuits.

License Plate Impoundment

Minnesota may also impound the license plate of commercial drivers under certain circumstances. A DWI conviction, CDL cancellation because of drug test failure or refusal, and two or more DUI/DWI convictions in ten years are some reasons a commercial license plate can get impounded.  

Appealing a DWI Conviction in Minnesota

Getting a DWI conviction isn’t the end of the road for a commercial driver. The driver has the right to appeal the ruling with the Minnesota Courts of Appeals within the required timeline. An MN DWI attorney can review the unique facts of the case and come up with solid grounds for requesting the appellate court to reverse the DWI conviction. The attorney can then present compelling oral arguments that will convince the appellate court to overturn the DWI conviction.

Max Keller image
Attorney Max Keller
Max Keller

Max Keller has won countless jury trial cases involving misdemeanors and felonies, sex crimes, and DWI’s. He is a member of the Minnesota Society for Criminal Justice, which only allows the top 50 criminal defense attorneys in the state as members. Max is a frequent speaker at CLE’s and is often asked for advice by other defense attorneys across Minnesota.

Years of Experience: Approx. 20 years
Minnesota Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: State of Minnesota Minnesota State Court Minnesota Federal Court 8th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals State of Maryland

What to Do If You Have Been Charged with a Criminal Offense

DWI driving while intoxicated printed on a paper clipped on a board with open fountain pen on a wooden table. DWI While Riding a Scooter

What Happens If You Get a DWI While Riding a Scooter or E-Bike in Minneapolis?

Minnesota DWI laws apply to all types of motorized vehicles using the road. So, you may get arrested and charged with DWI while riding a scooter or E-bike if your blood alcohol concentration is 0.08 or more. The penalties for a DWI conviction may range from driver license suspension or revocation and fines to imprisonment. A conviction may also result in collateral consequences, including job loss and higher auto insurance premiums. A DWI lawyer can minimize the legal consequences or avoid them altogether. So, be sure to retain a lawyer immediately after you get arrested or charged for riding a scooter or e-bike while impaired.
Top view police officer examining criminal record at desk. criminal record impact new charges

Can a Criminal Record Impact New Charges in Minnesota?

People with prior convictions and facing new charges may wonder, “Can a criminal record impact new charges in Minnesota?” Having a criminal record can influence how the prosecution and court will handle your current charges. The court may deny your bail request or impose strict conditions. It may also impose harsh penalties. The prosecution, on the other hand, may be reluctant to give you a favorable plea deal if you have a prior conviction for a similar or related offense.