Can You Get a CDL with a DWI in Texas?

Getting your commercial drivers license (CDL) can help you unlock the door to your new jobs and a successful career. In order to get one, however, you have to have a good driving record. 

Read on to learn more about some of the considerations for getting a CDL with a DWI on your record in Texas. 

Getting a CDL in Texas with a DWI: How It Works

Many people pursue a CDL as a way of transitioning into a new career as a commercial truck driver. But, is it possible to get your CDL license with a previous DWI (driving while intoxicated) conviction in Texas? 

Normally, the process for getting a CDL in Texas is pretty straightforward. In order to get the commercial license, you need to have a relatively clean driving record. 

Things that can blemish a driving record include:

• Speeding tickets
• Moving violations
• Parking tickets
• Other relevant driving citations
• DWIs

In addition to your driving record being in decent shape, you’ll also need to pass the skills and knowledge tests required to get your CDL. 

With that said, it’s not impossible to get a CDL with a past DWI or DUI in Texas. One DWI offense is sometimes not a bar to getting the commercial license. Having more than one on your record, however, deeply lessens your chances. 

Even if you are able to secure your CDL with a DWI on your record, there are other obstacles. For example, a trucking or logistics company may be reluctant to hire drivers with DWIs on their records. 

This is because the decision to hire a driver could be viewed as negligent in the context of an accident later caused by said driver—which could be fuel for a lawsuit against the trucking company, or an insurance claim denial. 

These issues highlight the importance of keeping a clean driving record if you want to become a commercial driver. 

Reach Out to a DWI Lawyer in Texas

Have you been charged with a DWI in Texas? Keeping a clean record could be the difference between getting or keeping your CDL or not. Let a DWI lawyer from The Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy fight for you. 

Call us at 817-605-1010 or fill out our online contact form to get started.