Will a DUI Affect My CDL in North Dakota?

If you’re a commercial driver in North Dakota, your livelihood depends on your CDL (Commercial Driver’s License). A DUI charge in North Dakota doesn’t just threaten your freedom—it can take away your career. Even a first offense can trigger serious consequences, and the rules for CDL holders are stricter than for regular drivers.

At Heartland Law Office, we’ve helped truck drivers across Bismarck, Minot, Fargo, Williston, Dickinson, and Grand Forks fight DUI charges and protect their ability to work. Here’s what you need to know if you hold a CDL and are facing a DUI in North Dakota.

CDL DUI Laws in North Dakota

The North Dakota Century Code § 39-06.2 lays out CDL rules. While most drivers face DUI charges if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, CDL holders are held to a stricter standard:

• 0.04% BAC or higher while operating a commercial vehicle = DUI

• Refusing a chemical test = automatic CDL disqualification

This means even a couple of drinks could put your career at risk if you’re behind the wheel of a semi-truck, bus, or other commercial vehicle.

CDL DUI Penalties in North Dakota

The penalties depend on whether it’s your first offense or a repeat violation.

First DUI Offense (CDL Holder)

• 1-year CDL disqualification (even if driving a personal vehicle)

• 3-year CDL disqualification if transporting hazardous materials

• Possible jail time, fines, and license suspension for standard DUI penalties

Second DUI Offense

• Lifetime CDL disqualification (with limited chance for reinstatement after 10 years under certain conditions)

Refusal to Test

• Treated the same as a DUI conviction for CDL purposes

DUI in a Personal Vehicle Still Impacts Your CDL

Many drivers think a DUI in their personal car won’t affect their commercial license. That’s not true. Under federal and state law, a DUI in any vehicle counts against your CDL and triggers the same suspensions.

For example, a Bismarck truck driver arrested for DUI in their pickup truck could still face a 1-year CDL suspension, effectively ending their career for that time.

Can You Get a Work Permit CDL After a DUI?

Unfortunately, North Dakota law does not allow CDL holders to apply for a work permit CDL. Regular drivers may sometimes get limited driving privileges, but commercial drivers cannot. If your CDL is suspended, you cannot legally operate a commercial vehicle until your suspension ends and you reinstate your license through the North Dakota DOT.

How to Fight a CDL DUI in North Dakota

Fighting a DUI as a CDL holder is about more than just keeping your license—it’s about protecting your future employment. Some possible defense strategies include:

• Challenging the stop: Did law enforcement have probable cause?

• Questioning the test results: Was the breathalyzer or blood test accurate?

• Examining procedures: Did police follow proper DUI arrest protocols?

• Negotiating charges: In some cases, charges may be reduced to a lesser offense.

An experienced DUI defense attorney can evaluate the facts of your case and fight to protect your CDL.

Cities and Counties Where CDL DUI Cases Commonly Arise

We frequently see CDL DUI cases across North Dakota highways and oilfield routes, especially near:

• Burleigh County (Bismarck)

• Ward County (Minot)

• Williams County (Williston)

• Stark County (Dickinson)

• Cass County (Fargo)

• Grand Forks County (Grand Forks)

Truck drivers passing through I-94, I-29, and U.S. Highway 2 often face enforcement, and local courts take CDL cases seriously.

Why Hire a North Dakota CDL DUI Lawyer?

A CDL suspension doesn’t just impact one job—it can put your entire career in jeopardy. Employers often won’t hire drivers with a DUI on record, and insurance requirements make it nearly impossible to return to work without legal help.

At Heartland Law Office, we defend truck drivers, oilfield workers, and commercial drivers across the state. We know how to challenge the evidence, fight for your rights, and give you the best chance of protecting your CDL.

FAQ: CDL and DUI in North Dakota

Q: Will a DUI in my personal vehicle affect my CDL in North Dakota?

A: Yes. Any DUI conviction, whether in a personal car or a commercial truck, can suspend or revoke your CDL.

Q: How long will my CDL be suspended after a first DUI in North Dakota?

A: A first DUI typically leads to a 1-year CDL suspension, or 3 years if transporting hazardous materials.

Q: Can I get a work permit CDL after a DUI in North Dakota?

A: No. North Dakota does not allow temporary or restricted CDL permits after a DUI suspension.

Q: What happens to my CDL if I refuse a breath or blood test?

A: Refusing a chemical test is treated the same as a DUI conviction and results in CDL disqualification.

Q: Do I need a lawyer for a CDL DUI in North Dakota?

A: Absolutely. CDL penalties are severe, and a lawyer can fight the evidence, represent you in court, and help protect your livelihood.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a licensed attorney regarding your specific situation.