CDL drivers need to act quickly to safeguard your driving privileges. A Fresno DUI attorney can help you get started.

Powerful CDL Driver Defense

Defend Against Commercial DUI Charges

Commercial truck drivers charged with a DUI in Fresno face strict laws, including a lower BAC limit. Even if you receive a DUI in your personal vehicle, you will face a number of consequences that will jeopardize your driver's license. Our experienced DUI lawyer can help protect your CDL, challenge the evidence, and reduce potential penalties in your case.

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Powerful CDL Driver Defense

Defend Against Commercial DUI Charges

Commercial truck drivers charged with a DUI in Fresno face strict laws, including a lower BAC limit. Even if you receive a DUI in your personal vehicle, you will face a number of consequences that will jeopardize your driver's license. Our experienced DUI lawyer can help protect your CDL, challenge the evidence, and reduce potential penalties in your case.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Powerful CDL Driver Defense

Commercial DUI

Commercial truck drivers charged with a DUI in Fresno face strict laws, including a lower BAC limit. Even if you receive a DUI in your personal vehicle, you will face a number of consequences that will jeopardize your driver's license. Our experienced DUI lawyer can help protect your CDL, challenge the evidence, and reduce potential penalties in your case.

Schedule a Free Consultation

What is a Commercial DUI?

A commercial DUI occurs when a driver holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is arrested for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. California Vehicle Code 23152(d) sets a lower BAC limit of 0.04% for commercial drivers operating commercial vehicles, compared to the 0.08% threshold for non-commercial drivers.

Crucially, this stricter standard applies only when the driver is operating a commercial vehicle. If you are driving your personal vehicle, the standard 0.08% BAC limit applies. Regardless, any DUI conviction as a CDL holder entails significant consequences.

Commercial DUI Laws in California

Under California Vehicle Code §23152(d), the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%, which is half the 0.08% limit for non-commercial drivers. This applies whether you're driving a personal or commercial vehicle at the time of the offense.

A first DUI conviction results in a minimum one-year suspension of your commercial driver’s license (CDL). If you’re transporting hazardous materials, the suspension can last up to three years. A second DUI offense means a lifetime disqualification from holding a CDL.

Unlike personal drivers, commercial drivers cannot obtain restricted licenses during suspension periods, making it illegal to work during that time. Beyond the fines and legal consequences, a DUI can lead to loss of income, difficulty finding future driving jobs, and ineligibility for restricted licenses—even if the DUI occurred while driving a personal vehicle.

Defense Strategies for Commercial DUI Cases

Getting charged with a DUI doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted. There are several potential defenses that could apply to your case, depending on the circumstances.t your rights in court while mitigating the impact on your career.

One possible defense is challenging the validity of field sobriety or chemical tests. These tests are not always accurate and can sometimes produce unreliable results. Another defense could involve arguing that there was insufficient probable cause for the initial traffic stop, which could invalidate the entire case.

Other defenses might include proving that blood or breath test samples were mishandled or contaminated. Additionally, procedural errors made during the arrest, such as failure to follow proper protocols, can also be highlighted to weaken the prosecution’s case.

An experienced DUI attorney that understands commercial DUI cases can thoroughly examine these and other defenses. We will work to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

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DUI Charges for Rideshare Drivers

Rideshare drivers operating under platforms like Uber or Lyft face unique challenges when it comes to DUI charges. While they don’t hold a formal commercial driver’s license (CDL), they are subject to strict DUI-related policies and California Vehicle Code 23152(e), which specifically addresses drivers operating as "passengers for hire."

Under VC 23152(e), the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for rideshare and taxi drivers actively transporting passengers is reduced to 0.04%, aligning with the standards for commercial drivers. This lower limit means rideshare drivers must exercise extra caution to avoid even minor violations.

A DUI conviction will result in a permanent deactivation from ride-hailing platforms, endangering your income and livelihood. Rideshare companies enforce zero-tolerance policies regarding DUI offenses. Drivers convicted of DUI—whether under standard DUI laws or VC 23152(e)—are permanently removed from the platform, with no exceptions. Additionally, even if a driver avoids criminal charges, rideshare companies may still deactivate drivers if their behavior raises concerns about passenger safety.

A DUI conviction can also have serious financial implications beyond deactivation. It often leads to increased insurance premiums, adding further financial strain for rideshare drivers who rely on their vehicles for income.

If you are a rideshare driver accused of DUI, especially under VC 23152(e), you need to speak to a DUI attorney immediately. Challenging the charges can help protect your ability to drive, maintain your livelihood, and avoid long-term financial repercussions. Seek legal guidance to understand your rights and options.

Don�t let a commercial DUI threaten your livelihood. Contact a Fresno lawyer to explore your options now.

Your CDL is on the line. Start building your defense by reaching out to a Fresno DUI attorney today.

DMV Hearings for Commercial Drivers Facing DUI Charges

If you are a commercial driver arrested for DUI in California, one of the most important steps you must take is to request a DMV administrative hearing. A DMV hearing determines whether your driving privileges, including your commercial driver’s license (CDL), will be suspended. Unlike the criminal court process, which handles penalties like fines and potential jail time, the DMV hearing is an entirely separate administrative process. Missing this step could lead to severe consequences for your career since you are facing a one year suspension on your license.

Request a DMV Within 10 Days of Your Arrest

Time is of the essence for commercial drivers facing DUI charges. Under California law, you have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to file a request for an administrative hearing with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you fail to act within this window, your license will automatically be suspended—even before your criminal case is resolved. This suspension includes both your personal driver’s license and your CDL, which can mean an immediate inability to work.

How the DMV Hearing Works

The DMV hearing, officially known as an Administrative Per Se (APS) hearing, reviews the circumstances of your DUI arrest to determine whether your license suspension is justified. During this hearing, the DMV hearing officer, not a judge, will assess evidence such as:

Whether the arresting officer had probable cause to stop you
Whether a chemical test confirmed your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was above the legal limit (.04% for commercial drivers)
Whether proper procedures were followed during your arrest and testing

This is a technical and evidence-driven process. The burden of proof is lower because the purpose of the hearing is to determine the status of your driving privileges based on administrative law.

Protect Your Livelihood Against a Commercial DUI

Facing a commercial DUI charge requires a proactive approach. With the right DUI lawyer, you can protect your career, your license, and your career. We have the experience to your drunk driving case, and will secure the best possible outcome for you.

If you have been arrested for DUI in California, act promptly to protect your CDL and driving privileges. You have just 10 days from the date of the arrest to request an administrative hearing with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Failure to do so results in an automatic suspension of your CDL license, regardless of the outcome of any criminal case.

Whether you’re a commercial truck driver, a rideshare driver, or another CDL holder, the consequences of a DUI conviction are severe. We recognize the high stakes and dedicate ourselves to delivering the personalized representation you need.

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Discuss your case with a Fresno DUI lawyer ready to defend your commercial driving license.

Protect Your Livelihood Against a Commercial DUI

Facing a commercial DUI charge requires a proactive approach. With the right DUI lawyer, you can protect your career, your license, and your career. We have the experience to your drunk driving case, and will secure the best possible outcome for you.

If you have been arrested for DUI in California, act promptly to protect your CDL and driving privileges. You have just 10 days from the date of the arrest to request an administrative hearing with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Failure to do so results in an automatic suspension of your CDL license, regardless of the outcome of any criminal case.

Whether you’re a commercial truck driver, a rideshare driver, or another CDL holder, the consequences of a DUI conviction are severe. We recognize the high stakes and dedicate ourselves to delivering the personalized representation you need.

Schedule a Free Consultation Our Services

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If you're facing a DUI, it’s natural to have questions. Begin by learning about key aspects of DUI cases, such as potential penalties, the court process, and common enhancements that may affect your case in Fresno. Connecting with our experienced attorney allows you to protect your rights, reduce the potential impact on your life, and work towards a more favorable outcome. Don’t wait to contact us to discuss your driving under the influence case.

A strong criminal defense is essential to protecting your constitutional rights and ensuring that you receive fair treatment i. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, the potential consequences can include hefty fines, a permanent criminal record, or even imprisonment. Learn how the criminal justice system works and then contact us to discuss your case.

A criminal record can hold you back from key opportunities in life. However, legal remedies such as expungements, sealing arrest records, and post-conviction relief provide a chance for a fresh start. These options can open doors to better opportunities, reduce stress, and help you move forward with confidence. By consulting with our experienced attorney, you can begin the process of reclaiming your future.

A traffic ticket might seem minor, but failing to handle it properly can lead to significant consequences. Beyond paying fines, a single violation can cause your insurance premiums to rise, add points to your driving record, or result in a license suspension. If you are a commercial driver, the risks are even greater, as a ticket could jeopardize your career and financial stability. Contact our office today to see how we can defend you in court against your traffic ticket.