DUI Penalties for Commercial Drivers in San Diego: What’s at Stake for Your CDL
For commercial drivers in San Diego, a DUI conviction is more than just a setback, it’s a career-ending event. Whether you drive a semi-truck, bus, delivery van, or rideshare vehicle, holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) comes with higher standards and much stricter consequences under California law.
Even a single DUI arrest, whether you’re on duty or off, can trigger automatic license suspensions, DOT reporting requirements, and potential job loss. If you rely on your CDL to make a living, understanding how California handles commercial DUI charges is critical.
California’s Zero-Tolerance Approach for Commercial Drivers
While the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for most drivers in California is 0.08%, commercial drivers are held to a stricter standard: 0.04% BAC. This lower threshold applies any time you’re operating a commercial vehicle.
If you’re caught driving a commercial vehicle in San Diego with a BAC of 0.04% or higher, you will be arrested and face both criminal and administrative consequences, even if it’s your first offense.
Additionally, California does not allow any “restricted” or hardship CDL following a DUI. If your CDL is suspended, you cannot drive commercially in any capacity.
DUI Penalties for CDL Holders in San Diego
If you are convicted of a DUI in San Diego while holding a CDL, here’s what you can expect:
First Offense (DUI with CDL):
- 1-year CDL suspension (mandatory)
- Possible jail time (up to 6 months)
- Fines and court fees (typically $1,800–$3,000)
- DUI education program (3–9 months)
- Higher insurance rates
- Permanent mark on your driving and criminal record
Second Offense or More:
- Lifetime revocation of your commercial license
- Felony charges possible, depending on circumstances
Even if you were driving your personal vehicle at the time of arrest, the CDL suspension still applies. That’s because California law ties CDL status to any DUI conviction, regardless of the type of vehicle involved.
Can You Fight a CDL DUI Charge in San Diego?
Yes. Even though DUI laws are strict, there are valid defenses that an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer can use to challenge the case:
- Inaccurate BAC results
- Illegal traffic stop or checkpoint
- Improperly administered field sobriety tests
- Unreliable breathalyzer calibration
- Failure to follow Title 13 CDL protocols
Your attorney can also help you fight the automatic DMV suspension at a separate administrative hearing, which is essential for protecting both your CDL and standard Class C license.
What to Do If You Hold a CDL and Are Charged with DUI
If you’re a commercial driver facing DUI charges in San Diego:
- Do not plead guilty without talking to a lawyer. CDL cases require specific knowledge.
- Request a DMV hearing immediately. You only have 10 days to contest the suspension.
- Gather employment and driving history. These documents may support your defense or sentencing mitigation.
Time is critical. The sooner you act, the better your chances of keeping your livelihood intact.
Protect Your License. Protect Your Future.
A DUI arrest can derail your driving career in an instant. If you hold a CDL and have been charged with DUI in San Diego, you need a defense strategy tailored to your profession, your record, and your future.
Attorney Rick Mueller is a seasoned San Diego DUI lawyer with decades of experience defending commercial drivers. He understands how high the stakes are and how to fight for your best outcome.
Don’t let one mistake cost you your career. Schedule a free, confidential consultation with a trusted San Diego DUI attorney, Rick Mueller, today.
DUI Penalties for Commercial Drivers in San Diego: What’s at Stake for Your CDL