Washington Commercial Driver's License (CDL) DUI Laws

In Washington, certain vehicles require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Under RCW 46.25.020, a driver must hold a valid CDL to operate a commercial motor vehicle.

A commercial motor vehicle generally includes any vehicle used in commerce to transport passengers or property that:

  • Has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more;
  • Is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver);
  • Is used to transport hazardous materials; or
  • Is operated as a school bus.

For many drivers — including truck drivers, bus operators, and commercial transport workers — a CDL is essential to maintaining employment.

Seattle Commercial DUI Laws

Commercial drivers are held to a higher legal standard than non-commercial drivers.

Under Washington law:

  • A CDL holder operating a commercial vehicle may not have an alcohol concentration of 0.04% or higher.
  • Commercial drivers may not operate a commercial vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or any drug.

Importantly, a CDL holder can face CDL disqualification even if the DUI occurred while driving a personal, non-commercial vehicle.

Under RCW 46.25.090, certain offenses — including DUI — result in mandatory commercial license disqualification.

CDL Disqualification Rules

A first DUI conviction (whether in a commercial or personal vehicle) generally results in:

  • A minimum one-year CDL disqualification

If the offense involved transporting hazardous materials, the minimum disqualification period increases.

A second qualifying offense can result in:

  • Lifetime CDL disqualification

In some limited circumstances, lifetime disqualification may be eligible for reinstatement after a lengthy period, but this is not guaranteed.

Unlike standard driver's license suspensions, CDL disqualification does not allow for a work-restricted commercial license. You cannot legally operate a commercial vehicle during the disqualification period.

Testing Requirements for CDL Drivers

CDL holders are subject to strict testing requirements. Refusing a lawful breath or blood test can trigger CDL disqualification.

Even if a CDL driver refuses testing while operating a personal vehicle, commercial disqualification penalties may still apply.

Criminal Penalties for Commercial DUI

In addition to CDL disqualification, a commercial DUI conviction carries the same criminal penalties as other DUI offenses, including:

  • Mandatory jail time
  • Fines up to $5,000
  • License suspension
  • Ignition interlock requirements
  • Probation supervision

For CDL drivers, the most severe consequence is often the loss of career and income.

Seattle Commercial DUI Defense Lawyer

If you hold a CDL, a DUI charge threatens more than your driving privileges — it threatens your livelihood.

Early legal intervention is critical. In some cases, reducing a DUI charge to a non-disqualifying offense can protect your commercial license.

Attorney Steve Karimi is a former prosecutor who understands how DUI cases are evaluated and charged. He carefully examines the evidence, challenges weaknesses in the State's case, and works to protect both your record and your career.

Call 206-222-3280 now for a free consultation. Available 24/7.