What are the CDL disqualification rules in Washington?

1 year first major violation, lifetime for second; 60-120 days for serious violations [§ 46.25.090]. Federal regulations apply uniformly to CDL holders in all states.

Can CDL holders attend traffic school?

In most jurisdictions, CDL holders cannot use traffic school to dismiss a moving violation [§ 49 C.F.R. 383.51]. Every conviction counts toward disqualification thresholds. This makes legal representation especially important for CDL holders.

What happens to my CDL if I get a traffic ticket in my personal vehicle?

CDL holders are held to higher standards even when driving personal vehicles [§ 46.25.090]. A DUI in your personal vehicle results in CDL disqualification. Serious traffic violations in any vehicle count toward CDL disqualification thresholds.

How can I protect my CDL after a traffic violation?

Hire an attorney experienced in CDL defense immediately. They can often negotiate non-moving violation pleas that do not count toward CDL disqualification. Never simply pay a ticket — it is an admission of guilt.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Washington CDL Violations — Commercial Driving Rules

Q: What is considered a major violation for CDL holders?

Major violations include DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, using a CMV to commit a felony, driving a CMV with a revoked CDL, and causing a fatality through negligent CMV operation [§ 46.25.090].

CDL disqualification rules, major and serious violations, and protecting your commercial license in Washington.

Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders in Washington are held to higher standards than regular drivers. Traffic violations can result in CDL disqualification, which directly impacts your livelihood §46.25.090.

CDL-Specific Rules

CDL holders governed by federal and state rules: major violations result in 1-year CDL disqualification; serious violations tracked per federal standards §46.25.090.

Disqualification Thresholds

	Consequence
First Major Violation	1 year first major violation, lifetime for second
Second Major Violation	Lifetime disqualification §49 C.F.R. 383.51
Two Serious Violations in 3 Years	60-day disqualification §49 C.F.R. 383.51
Three Serious Violations in 3 Years	120-day disqualification §49 C.F.R. 383.51
Railroad Crossing Violation	60-day minimum disqualification §49 C.F.R. 383.51

Major Violations (CDL)

Driving a CMV under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Leaving the scene of an accident involving a CMV

Using a CMV to commit a felony

Driving a CMV with a revoked/suspended CDL

Causing a fatality through negligent operation of a CMV

Serious Violations (CDL)

Excessive speeding (15+ mph over limit)

Reckless driving

Improper or erratic lane changes

Following too closely

Traffic violations in connection with a fatal accident

Operating without a CDL in possession

Protecting Your CDL

⚠CDL holders cannot attend traffic school to dismiss a violation in most jurisdictions. Every moving violation counts. An attorney experienced in CDL defense can often negotiate non-moving violation pleas that protect your commercial license.

Impact on Employment

A CDL disqualification means you cannot legally operate commercial motor vehicles for the duration of the disqualification. Most employers will terminate a driver who loses their CDL privileges. Protecting your CDL should be a top priority after any traffic stop.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Traffic Violations)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Traffic citation copy

(date, location, violation code)

Driving record / MVR

(point history, prior violations)

Insurance and registration

(proof of coverage, vehicle reg.)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and violation type.

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