Can Traffic Tickets in a Personal Vehicle Lead to CDL Revocation?

Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders are subject to special rules and restrictions while operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). These rules and restrictions usually don't apply when a CDL holder is driving a non-commercial, personal vehicle. However, traffic violations can lead to CDL revocation if committed in a CMV. Under federal regulations, offenses that can lead to a CDL revocation are called "serious" and "major" violations.

Major Traffic Violations in a Personal Vehicle and CDL Revocation

Under federal law, a conviction for a major violation will result in CDL revocation regardless of whether a person was driving a personal vehicle or CMV when the violation occurred.

Major offenses include:

• DUI
• refusing to take a chemical test
• leaving the scene of an accident, and
• using the vehicle to commit a felony.

A conviction for committing any of the above offenses in a personal vehicle or CMV will result in a 1-year CDL revocation. A second conviction will result in lifetime revocation. (49 C.F.R. 383.51, Table 1 (2025).)

Serious Traffic Violations in a Personal Vehicle and CDL Revocation

A first offense for a serious traffic violation will result in a CDL revocation only if the driver was operating a CMV. Serious traffic violations include:

• speeding excessively (15 mph or more above the speed limit)
• reckless driving
• making erratic lane changes
• following too closely, and
• violating a traffic law during a fatal accident.

(49 C.F.R. 383.51, Table 2 (2025).)

Second and subsequent serious traffic violations committed in a personal vehicle can lead to a CDL revocation, but only if the conviction results in the revocation, cancellation, or suspension of the driver's license or privilege to drive. In that case, a second offense within 3 years will result in a 60-day CDL revocation, and a third offense within 3 years will result in a 120-day CDL revocation. (49 C.F.R. 383.51, Table 2 (2025).)

Traffic Tickets Can Result in a CDL Revocation Under State Law

Even though federal rules might not require CDL revocation for a specific traffic offense committed in personal vehicles, the laws of some states are less forgiving. In Oregon, for instance, a first offense for driving a personal vehicle at a speed greater than 100 mph—or speeding 30 mph above the limit—can lead to CDL revocation. (Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 809.430, 811.109; OAR 735-063-0360 (2025).)

Additionally, many states use a license demerit point system. In these states, many traffic violations (committed in either a CMV or a personal vehicle) will result in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) assessing license demerit points against the driver's record. Too many accumulated points will result in the suspension of both commercial and personal driving privileges.

Getting Help From an Attorney

If you have a CDL and have received a ticket for a traffic infraction, you might want to get help from an attorney who handles traffic cases. An attorney might be able to help you develop a defense or obtain a plea deal that won't result in the loss of your CDL.