The Importance of a CDL and the Consequences of a DUI Conviction
If you are a commercial driver, your CDL is more than just a license—it’s your livelihood. It gives you the legal permission to operate commercial vehicles, and losing it can have a significant impact on your ability to earn a living. In West Virginia, a DUI charge involving a CDL is treated with extra seriousness because of the public safety concerns associated with commercial vehicles. CDL holders are held to a higher standard, and the penalties for DUI convictions are more severe than those for non-commercial drivers. A DUI charge for a commercial driver often comes with more consequences than a typical DUI. This can affect both your immediate situation, such as your ability to drive, and your long-term career prospects. West Virginia law imposes strict regulations to ensure that commercial drivers are not driving while impaired, and the consequences of a DUI conviction can be devastating for someone in the trucking, transportation, or other commercial driving industries. 
Harley Wagner
Defending West Virginia Residents for over 24 Years
Key Differences Between CDL DUI and Standard DUI Cases in West Virginia
Both commercial and non-commercial drivers face serious consequences when charged with DUI, but CDL DUI cases are treated differently because of the unique responsibilities that come with operating large vehicles. For CDL holders, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is set at 0.04%, which is half the limit for regular drivers (0.08%). If your BAC is 0.04% or higher, you can be arrested for DUI, even if you are not legally intoxicated under the standard DUI laws. This ensures that commercial drivers are fully capable of operating large vehicles safely at all times. The law takes extra precautions to ensure public safety due to the size and impact of commercial vehicles. The consequences for a CDL DUI can be much more severe than for a standard DUI. A conviction could result in a suspension of your CDL for one year or more. In some cases, it could be revoked for life, particularly if it’s not your first offense. Losing your CDL can make it nearly impossible to continue working as a commercial driver, significantly impacting your livelihood.
Harley and Heather gave me peace of mind as they walked me through the process of my DUI. Heather was so quick to answer even the smallest and probably irrelevant questions I had. I was extremely nervous to walk in the courtroom, but Harley made sure I was in and out of there in no time with the best deal I could think of. My DUI charge was reduced to a speeding ticket and some online DUI classes. Would absolutely recommend Harley and Heather if you’re ever in need of a lawyer.”
- Antea Jarazi
The Wagner Law Firm was amazing from beginning to end dealing with my case. This was my first time ever dealing with anything like this and they helped me tremendously and answered all my questions super fast. We got the best outcome possible for my case and I will be recommending Harley and Heather to anyone that’s ever in my situation."
- Savanna Cummings
Harley and Heather do not stop and are excellent at always keeping their clients up to date on the status of their case and never left wondering. They do all the work and are very well connected throughout the state. I will forever be grateful to both Harley and Heather for what they did for me,,,, they aren’t just another law firm, they are great people who truly care. Thank you."
- Clint Anderson