What felonies disqualify you from getting a CDL?

Under federal law (49 CFR 383.51), the felonies that disqualify you are: (1) using a commercial motor vehicle to manufacture, distribute, or dispense controlled substances — lifetime ban, no reinstatement; (2) using a CMV to commit human trafficking — lifetime ban, no reinstatement; (3) using any motor vehicle to commit any other felony — 1-year disqualification for first offense, lifetime for second; (4) DUI/DWI in any vehicle — 1-year disqualification for first offense, lifetime for second. States may add additional restrictions.

Can I get a CDL with a drug conviction?

It depends on the type of drug conviction. Simple drug possession (a non-driving offense) does not disqualify you from getting a CDL under federal rules. However, if you used a commercial motor vehicle to manufacture, distribute, or dispense drugs, you are permanently disqualified. For a hazmat endorsement, drug distribution convictions are disqualifying if within the last 7 years (conviction) or 5 years (release from prison). Employer policies also vary — some trucking companies will not hire drivers with any drug felony.

How long after a felony can I get a CDL?

If your felony was unrelated to driving, you can apply for a CDL as soon as you are released and have a valid driver's license. There is no federal waiting period for non-driving felonies. For driving-related disqualifications, the waiting periods are: 1 year for a first major offense, 3 years if hauling hazmat during a DUI, and 10 years for lifetime disqualification reinstatement (if eligible). Employer waiting periods are separate — most trucking companies require 1-7 years since conviction or release before they will hire you.

Can I get a CDL with a DUI on my record?

Yes, after serving the disqualification period. A first DUI results in a 1-year CDL disqualification (3 years if hauling hazmat). After the disqualification period ends, you can reinstate your CDL. A second DUI results in lifetime disqualification, but most states allow reinstatement after 10 years with an approved rehabilitation program. A third DUI is permanently disqualifying in most states. Remember: the 0.04% BAC limit for CDL holders is stricter than the standard 0.08% limit.

How much does it cost to get a CDL?

Total costs range from $3,000 to $8,000 including CDL training school. Breakdown: CDL training program ($3,000-$7,000), DOT physical ($50-$150), CLP knowledge test fee ($10-$90), CDL skills test fee ($50-$200), license issuance fee ($20-$100), and hazmat endorsement TSA fee ($86 if applicable). Some trucking companies offer free CDL training in exchange for a 1-2 year employment commitment. Financial aid, GI Bill benefits, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding, and Pell Grants may also help cover training costs.

How long does it take to get a CDL?

The full process typically takes 6-12 weeks: studying for and passing the CLP knowledge tests (1-2 weeks), completing Entry-Level Driver Training at an approved school (3-8 weeks), holding the CLP for the minimum 14-day waiting period, and passing the CDL skills test. Accelerated full-time programs can be completed in as little as 3-4 weeks. Part-time or weekend programs take longer, typically 8-12 weeks.

Will trucking companies hire me with a felony?

Many will, especially due to the nationwide truck driver shortage. Companies known to offer second chances include Western Express, C.R. England, Cardinal Logistics, Navajo Express, CRST International, PAM Transport, Werner Enterprises, and USA Truck. Policies vary: some hire 1 year after release, others require 3-10 years. Most companies draw the line at violent felonies, sex offenses, and drug trafficking. Being honest about your record is essential — falsifying an application is grounds for immediate termination and may violate your parole or probation.

Can I get a CDL while on probation or parole?

Yes, in most cases. Federal CDL regulations do not prohibit people on probation or parole from obtaining a CDL. However, you should verify with your probation/parole officer, as some conditions of supervision may include travel restrictions that could limit your ability to work as a long-haul truck driver. Also, some states may require additional documentation or approval from your supervising officer.

What is the ELDT requirement for new CDL applicants?

Since February 7, 2022, all new CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before taking the CDL skills test. ELDT includes both theory (classroom) instruction and behind-the-wheel training. This applies to all new Class A and Class B CDL applicants and those adding passenger (P), school bus (S), or hazmat (H) endorsements. Training must be completed at a registered provider — self-study alone is not sufficient.

Can a lifetime CDL disqualification be reversed?

In some cases, yes. Under 49 CFR 383.51, states may reinstate a lifetime-disqualified CDL after 10 years if the driver has completed an approved rehabilitation program and maintained a clean record. However, two offenses can never be reinstated: using a CMV to traffic drugs and using a CMV for human trafficking — these are permanent with no possibility of reinstatement. Additionally, if you receive a second disqualifying offense after being reinstated, the disqualification becomes permanent.

Can a Felon Get a CDL?

Last updated: 2026-03-21

Yes, most people with a felony conviction can get a CDL (Commercial Driver's License). Federal law (FMCSA regulations) does not ban felons from holding a CDL unless the felony involved the use of a motor vehicle. The main disqualifiers are: using a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances (lifetime ban), using a CMV to commit human trafficking (lifetime ban), DUI/DWI offenses (1-year to lifetime ban depending on number of offenses), and certain driving-related felonies. If your felony was unrelated to driving — such as theft, assault, or drug possession — you can generally obtain a CDL. However, a hazmat endorsement has additional restrictions through TSA background checks, and individual employers set their own hiring standards.

You CAN get a CDL if you...

✓Convicted of a non-driving-related felony (theft, burglary, assault, drug possession, etc.)
✓Completed your sentence, probation, or parole for any state-level offense unrelated to driving
✓Had a single DUI/DWI — after serving the 1-year CDL disqualification period
✓Convicted of a misdemeanor (including most non-driving misdemeanors)
✓Have an expunged or sealed record (though employers may still ask)
✓Released from prison more than 3-7 years ago (meets most employer minimum waiting periods)
✓Previously held a CDL that was disqualified but completed the disqualification period and any required rehabilitation

You CANNOT get a CDL if you...

✗Used a CMV to manufacture, distribute, or dispense controlled substances
Using a commercial motor vehicle in the commission of a felony involving the manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing of controlled substances results in a lifetime CDL disqualification with no possibility of reinstatement. This is the strictest CDL ban. (49 CFR § 383.51(b)(4))
✗Used a CMV to commit human trafficking
Using a commercial motor vehicle to commit a felony involving human trafficking (as defined in 18 U.S.C. 1590-1592) results in a lifetime disqualification with no possibility of reinstatement. (49 CFR § 383.51(b)(5))
✗Two or more major driving offenses (DUI, hit-and-run, vehicular felony, etc.)
A second major offense — including DUI/DWI, leaving the scene of an accident, using any vehicle to commit a felony, or driving a CMV while disqualified — results in a lifetime CDL disqualification. States may allow reinstatement after 10 years with an approved rehabilitation program, but a third offense is permanently disqualifying. (49 CFR § 383.51(b))
✗Currently have a suspended or revoked driver's license
You cannot obtain a CDL if your base driver's license is suspended or revoked. You must first reinstate your regular license before applying for a CDL. (State DMV requirements)
✗Cannot pass the DOT physical examination
All CDL holders must pass a DOT physical exam by a certified medical examiner. Conditions that may disqualify you include uncontrolled epilepsy, certain vision or hearing impairments, and some cardiovascular conditions. This is not felony-specific but is a common barrier. (49 CFR § 391.41)

Gray areas — it depends

Single DUI/DWI offense

A first DUI/DWI results in a 1-year CDL disqualification (3 years if hauling hazmat at the time). After serving the disqualification period, you can apply for reinstatement. The BAC limit for CDL drivers is 0.04% — half the standard 0.08% limit. Note: the DUI counts even if you were driving a personal vehicle, not a CMV.

Used any vehicle (not just a CMV) to commit a felony

If you committed any felony while using a motor vehicle — even a personal car — you face a 1-year CDL disqualification for a first offense. This includes fleeing police, vehicular assault, or using a vehicle as part of a crime. After the disqualification period, you may be eligible to reinstate.

Felony conviction and seeking a hazmat endorsement

Even if you can get a basic CDL, a hazmat endorsement requires a separate TSA security threat assessment. Many felony convictions — including weapons offenses, explosives, arson, drug distribution, fraud, and others — disqualify you for 7 years from conviction or 5 years from prison release. Some offenses (terrorism, treason, improper transport of hazmat) are permanently disqualifying.

State-specific additional restrictions

Some states add restrictions beyond federal minimums. For example, New York permanently bars CDL holders with two serious alcohol-related offenses. Indiana requires a 10-year waiting period after certain felonies. Always check your specific state's DMV for CDL eligibility rules beyond the federal baseline.

Lifetime disqualification — can it be reversed?

Federal law (49 CFR § 383.51) allows states to reinstate a lifetime-disqualified CDL after 10 years if the driver completes an approved rehabilitation program and has maintained a clean driving record. However, this does NOT apply to drug trafficking using a CMV or human trafficking using a CMV — those are permanent with no reinstatement. A second disqualifying offense after reinstatement is permanent.

How to Get a CDL — Step by Step

Check your eligibility and driving record

Verify you have no active CDL disqualifications by requesting your driving record from your state DMV. Confirm your base driver's license is valid (not suspended or revoked). If you have a disqualification, determine when it expires. Check if your state has additional felony-related restrictions beyond federal rules.

Pass the DOT physical exam

Schedule a DOT physical with a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. The exam costs $50-$150 and checks vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall fitness. You'll receive a Medical Examiner's Certificate valid for up to 24 months. As of 2025, your medical certification is transmitted electronically to your state DMV (no physical card required).

Study for and pass the CDL knowledge tests

Get your state's CDL manual from the DMV website. Study for the general knowledge test plus any endorsement tests you need (e.g., air brakes, combination vehicles, tanker, hazmat). Visit your DMV to take the written tests. Passing earns you a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). CLP fee: $10-$90 depending on state.

Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Since February 2022, all new CDL applicants must complete ELDT from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). Training includes theory instruction and behind-the-wheel practice. CDL training programs typically cost $3,000-$8,000 and take 3-8 weeks. Some trucking companies offer free training in exchange for a work commitment.

Hold your CLP for at least 14 days, then take the CDL skills test

You must hold your CLP for a minimum of 14 days before taking the skills test. The CDL skills test has three parts: vehicle inspection, basic vehicle controls, and a road test. Skills test fee: $50-$200 depending on state. You can take the test at a state DMV facility or an approved third-party testing site.

Receive your CDL and apply for jobs

Once you pass all tests, your state DMV issues your CDL. Total CDL fees (application, testing, license): $50-$200 depending on state. Your CDL is valid for 4-8 years depending on state. Begin applying to trucking companies — many specifically advertise second-chance hiring policies. Be upfront about your record; most companies run background checks.

Can a felon get a hazmat endorsement?

Maybe. A hazmat (H) endorsement requires a TSA security threat assessment in addition to the standard CDL. The TSA checks criminal history under 49 CFR 1572.103. There are two categories of disqualifying offenses: (1) Permanent disqualifiers — including espionage, sedition, treason, terrorism, improper transportation of hazardous material, and certain weapons/explosives offenses — bar you for life. (2) Interim disqualifiers — including arson, drug distribution, firearms offenses, fraud/dishonesty, robbery, extortion, and bribery — bar you if convicted within the last 7 years or released from prison within the last 5 years. If your felony is not on either list, or enough time has passed since an interim offense, you may be eligible. The TSA background check costs approximately $86 and takes 30-60 days.

How does a DUI/DWI affect a CDL?

A DUI/DWI is classified as a 'major offense' under 49 CFR 383.51. A first offense results in a 1-year CDL disqualification (3 years if hauling hazmat). A second DUI or major offense results in lifetime disqualification — though most states allow reinstatement after 10 years with an approved rehabilitation program. Critically, the CDL disqualification applies even if the DUI occurred while driving a personal vehicle, not a commercial vehicle. The legal BAC limit for CDL holders is 0.04%, half of the standard 0.08%. Refusing a chemical/breath test also counts as a major offense with the same penalties as a DUI conviction.

Will trucking companies actually hire felons?

Yes, many will — especially given the ongoing truck driver shortage. However, policies vary widely. Some companies hire felons immediately upon release; others require 1, 3, 5, 7, or even 10 years since conviction or release. Most companies draw the line at violent felonies, sex offenses, and drug trafficking. Companies known for second-chance hiring include Western Express, C.R. England, Cardinal Logistics, Navajo Express, CRST International, PAM Transport, and Werner Enterprises. Many of these companies also offer paid CDL training programs. Be prepared for a thorough background check and be honest about your record on applications.

Does expungement help with getting a CDL?

For the CDL itself, expungement may help because state DMVs may not see the conviction on your record. However, for the hazmat endorsement, the TSA conducts a federal-level background check that may still find expunged records. For employment purposes, expungement is more helpful — many states prohibit employers from asking about expunged convictions. That said, DOT-regulated employers have specific background check requirements that may still reveal certain driving-related offenses regardless of expungement.

Visual Guide

Can a felon get a CDL infographic: YES for most felons, 2 lifetime disqualifiers (drug trafficking in CMV, human trafficking in CMV), DUI tiers, hazmat TSA requirements, $3,000-7,000 CDL school cost, 3-7 week training. Source: FMCSA, secondchanceinfo.com.

Take Action — Direct Links

FMCSA — How to get a CDL (official guide)
Official federal guide with step-by-step CDL application instructions
FMCSA Training Provider Registry — Find approved CDL schools
Search for ELDT-approved CDL training providers in your state
FMCSA National Registry — Find a DOT medical examiner
Locate a certified medical examiner for your DOT physical
TSA — Hazmat endorsement program
Information on TSA security threat assessment for hazmat endorsement
TSA — Disqualifying offenses list
Complete list of permanent and interim disqualifying offenses for hazmat
CDL practice tests (free)
Free CDL knowledge test practice questions for all endorsements
CareerOneStop — Find local job training programs
U.S. Department of Labor tool to find WIOA-funded CDL training and other job programs near you

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a felon get a CDL?: Yes, in most cases. Federal law (FMCSA regulations) does not prohibit felons from obtaining a CDL unless the felony involved the use of a motor vehicle. Non-driving felonies — such as theft, assault, drug possession, burglary, or fraud — do not disqualify you from getting a CDL. The main disqualifiers are using a CMV for drug trafficking (lifetime ban), using a CMV for human trafficking (lifetime ban), DUI/DWI (1-year to lifetime ban), and using any vehicle to commit a felony (1-year ban for first offense).
What felonies disqualify you from getting a CDL?: Under federal law (49 CFR 383.51), the felonies that disqualify you are: (1) using a commercial motor vehicle to manufacture, distribute, or dispense controlled substances — lifetime ban, no reinstatement; (2) using a CMV to commit human trafficking — lifetime ban, no reinstatement; (3) using any motor vehicle to commit any other felony — 1-year disqualification for first offense, lifetime for second; (4) DUI/DWI in any vehicle — 1-year disqualification for first offense, lifetime for second. States may add additional restrictions.
Can I get a CDL with a drug conviction?: It depends on the type of drug conviction. Simple drug possession (a non-driving offense) does not disqualify you from getting a CDL under federal rules. However, if you used a commercial motor vehicle to manufacture, distribute, or dispense drugs, you are permanently disqualified. For a hazmat endorsement, drug distribution convictions are disqualifying if within the last 7 years (conviction) or 5 years (release from prison). Employer policies also vary — some trucking companies will not hire drivers with any drug felony.
How long after a felony can I get a CDL?: If your felony was unrelated to driving, you can apply for a CDL as soon as you are released and have a valid driver's license. There is no federal waiting period for non-driving felonies. For driving-related disqualifications, the waiting periods are: 1 year for a first major offense, 3 years if hauling hazmat during a DUI, and 10 years for lifetime disqualification reinstatement (if eligible). Employer waiting periods are separate — most trucking companies require 1-7 years since conviction or release before they will hire you.
Can I get a CDL with a DUI on my record?: Yes, after serving the disqualification period. A first DUI results in a 1-year CDL disqualification (3 years if hauling hazmat). After the disqualification period ends, you can reinstate your CDL. A second DUI results in lifetime disqualification, but most states allow reinstatement after 10 years with an approved rehabilitation program. A third DUI is permanently disqualifying in most states. Remember: the 0.04% BAC limit for CDL holders is stricter than the standard 0.08% limit.
Can a felon get a hazmat endorsement?: Maybe, depending on your conviction and how long ago it occurred. The TSA conducts a security threat assessment for all hazmat applicants under 49 CFR 1572.103. Permanently disqualifying offenses include terrorism, treason, espionage, and improper transportation of hazardous materials. Interim disqualifying offenses — including arson, firearms offenses, drug distribution, robbery, extortion, fraud, and bribery — are disqualifying if convicted within 7 years or released from prison within 5 years. If enough time has passed, you may qualify.
How much does it cost to get a CDL?: Total costs range from $3,000 to $8,000 including CDL training school. Breakdown: CDL training program ($3,000-$7,000), DOT physical ($50-$150), CLP knowledge test fee ($10-$90), CDL skills test fee ($50-$200), license issuance fee ($20-$100), and hazmat endorsement TSA fee ($86 if applicable). Some trucking companies offer free CDL training in exchange for a 1-2 year employment commitment. Financial aid, GI Bill benefits, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding, and Pell Grants may also help cover training costs.
How long does it take to get a CDL?: The full process typically takes 6-12 weeks: studying for and passing the CLP knowledge tests (1-2 weeks), completing Entry-Level Driver Training at an approved school (3-8 weeks), holding the CLP for the minimum 14-day waiting period, and passing the CDL skills test. Accelerated full-time programs can be completed in as little as 3-4 weeks. Part-time or weekend programs take longer, typically 8-12 weeks.
Will trucking companies hire me with a felony?: Many will, especially due to the nationwide truck driver shortage. Companies known to offer second chances include Western Express, C.R. England, Cardinal Logistics, Navajo Express, CRST International, PAM Transport, Werner Enterprises, and USA Truck. Policies vary: some hire 1 year after release, others require 3-10 years. Most companies draw the line at violent felonies, sex offenses, and drug trafficking. Being honest about your record is essential — falsifying an application is grounds for immediate termination and may violate your parole or probation.
Can I get a CDL while on probation or parole?: Yes, in most cases. Federal CDL regulations do not prohibit people on probation or parole from obtaining a CDL. However, you should verify with your probation/parole officer, as some conditions of supervision may include travel restrictions that could limit your ability to work as a long-haul truck driver. Also, some states may require additional documentation or approval from your supervising officer.
What is the ELDT requirement for new CDL applicants?: Since February 7, 2022, all new CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before taking the CDL skills test. ELDT includes both theory (classroom) instruction and behind-the-wheel training. This applies to all new Class A and Class B CDL applicants and those adding passenger (P), school bus (S), or hazmat (H) endorsements. Training must be completed at a registered provider — self-study alone is not sufficient.
Can a lifetime CDL disqualification be reversed?: In some cases, yes. Under 49 CFR 383.51, states may reinstate a lifetime-disqualified CDL after 10 years if the driver has completed an approved rehabilitation program and maintained a clean record. However, two offenses can never be reinstated: using a CMV to traffic drugs and using a CMV for human trafficking — these are permanent with no possibility of reinstatement. Additionally, if you receive a second disqualifying offense after being reinstated, the disqualification becomes permanent.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. CDL regulations vary by state and change periodically. Consult the FMCSA, your state DMV, or a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.