5 Tips to Protect Your CDL license
5 Tips to Protect Your CDL license
Getting a CDL license is an investment that takes time, effort, and a lot of training. No doubt you celebrated the day you finally received your CDL license and were approved to start working. Yet all of that can be put at risk by just a few poor decisions or overlooked regulations. The good news? Most CDL suspensions and disqualifications are completely preventable. Here are five of the best ways to protect your CDL and keep your career moving forward.
1. Never Drive Impaired
Alcohol, illegal drugs, or misuse of prescription medications can quickly end a trucking career. Under FMCSA regulations here are some of the consequences you may face, even on the first offense:
- A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher while operating a commercial motor vehicle results in at least a one-year CDL disqualification for a first offense.
- Having any measurable alcohol concentration of 0.01% to 0.039% while operating a CMV places you out of service for 24 hours.
- Refusing a required alcohol or drug test carries penalties similar to failing the test.
If a CDL driver fails or refuses a required drug or alcohol test, they may lose their commercial driving privileges until they complete the federally required Return-to-Duty process.
2. Protect Your Driving Record
There are some moving violations that are "serious" especially if commited in a CMV. These include: speeding 15 mph or more over the speed limit, reckless driving, improper or erratic lane changes, following too closely, violating traffic control laws in connection with a fatal crash, and handheld-talking or texting while driving a CMV.
However, you still need to give thought to your CDL license even when off the clock, as there are some moving violations that threaten your CDL license even in your personal vehicle. These include: DUIs of alcohol/drugs, refusing a required alcohol or drug test, leaving the scene of an accident, using a motor vehicle to commit a felony, driving while your license is suspended, revoked, or canceled, and causing a fatality.
Another way to protect your driving record when on the job is to follow Hours-of-Service rules. Make it a habit to use your Electronic Logging Device (ELD) correctly and never falsify records. You may worry about falling behind on your schedule, but staying within the guidelines provided by the FMCSA helps you to avoid fatigue to keep you and others safe on the road.
Federal regulations require CDL holders to notify their employer of most traffic convictions (other than parking violations) within 30 days. If your license is suspended, revoked, canceled, or you are disqualified, you must notify your employer by the end of the next business day after receiving notice.
3. Stay Current on Medical and Licensing Requirements
Protecting your CDL also means keeping your qualifications current. Never let your Medical Examiner's Certificate, CDL endorsements, Hazmat Threat Assessment, or license renewals expire. Many drivers have temporarily lost commercial driving privileges simply because paperwork expired.
A useful tip may be to set calendar reminders well before renewal dates to make sure you stay on top of everything.
4. Take Every Inspection Seriously
Roadside inspections are part of life as a CDL driver. The best way to avoid violations is by performing thorough pre-trip, during, and post-trip inspections. Pay special close attention to: brakes, tires, lights, air brake systems, and your emergency equipment. During the trip, continue to check your cargo securement as cargo securement violations can lead to citations, out-of-service orders, and serious crashes. Being able to catch minor maintenance problems early can help you and others stay safe while also preventing major violations later.
If you are stopped for a roadside inspection, have your documents organized, remain courteous, and address maintenance issues before they become an issue with inspectors.
5. Never Stop Learning
New technology, updated FMCSA regulations, electronic logging systems, and changing safety requirements mean that you will have plenty to keep you busy while enhancing your CDL driving skills. By staying informed and up-to-date you can avoid violations, pass inpections, qualify for better-paying jobs, and build a successful career.
At CDL Direct, we don’t just prepare you to pass the exam. Our course is designed to prepare you for real-world situations—inspections, roadside stops, accidents, and the decisions and driving techniques that protect your livelihood.