New Jersey CDL Disqualifications: Every Driver Needs To Know

Getting a CDL in New Jersey is an important step for commercial drivers, but facing New Jersey CDL disqualifications is something no driver ever wants to experience, as they can have a serious impact on one’s career. Moreover, the length of disqualifications can vary, from short-term suspensions of 60 or 120 days to permanent lifetime bans, depending on the severity of the offense. In this guide, Easy Prep will break down the specific offenses that trigger each type of disqualification, helping you understand the risks and take the right steps to avoid them.

What are the New Jersey CDL disqualifications?

Drug and alcohol violations

Drug and alcohol violations

Drug and alcohol violations are among the most common and serious reasons for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) disqualification in New Jersey. Commercial drivers are held to higher safety standards, which means even minor violations can lead to severe consequences. Below are the key situations where your CDL may be disqualified:

• Operating a CMV with a BAC of 0.04% or higher
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including in a non-CMV while holding a CDL)
• Refusing to submit to a blood and/or breath test while holding a CDL
• A first conviction for using a motor vehicle to manufacture or distribute illegal drugs (disqualification for at least 10 years)
• A first conviction for using a CMV to commit a felony involving severe human trafficking (disqualification for at least 10 years)
• Possession or transportation of controlled substances

Serious traffic violations

Serious traffic violations

Serious traffic violations are another leading cause of CDL disqualification in New Jersey. These offenses demonstrate a blatant disregard for traffic laws and public safety, and they carry much harsher consequences for commercial drivers. As a result, if you are found guilty of any of the following serious traffic offenses in New Jersey, your CDL may be disqualified:

• Reckless driving
• Speeding 15 mph or more above the posted speed limit
• Improper or unsafe lane changes
• Following another vehicle too closely
• Driving with a suspended or revoked license
• Operating a CMV without a valid CDL
• Operating a CMV without the proper CDL class or required endorsements

Railroad crossing violations

Railroad crossing violations

Railroad crossing violations are taken extremely seriously in New Jersey, especially for commercial drivers holding a CDL. Because trains cannot stop quickly and railroad intersections are high-risk areas, strict laws require drivers to approach, stop, and cross with the utmost caution. As a result, your CDL can be disqualified if you commit any of the following violations:

• Failing to stop before a railroad crossing when required (for example, vehicles carrying flammable/explosive materials, school buses, or omnibuses with more than six passengers).
• Stopping too close or too far from the tracks (New Jersey law requires between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail) when the stop is required.
• Not listening and looking both ways for approaching trains or equipment while stopped.
• Crossing in a gear that requires shifting over the tracks (i.e., shifting gears while on the tracks), for vehicles that are required to stop.
• Vehicles with low clearance or slow speed or other physical constraints must notify railroad superintendents or take additional precautions in some cases.
• A single violation at a railroad-highway grade crossing while operating a CMV
• A third or subsequent violation within 3 years (harsher disqualification)

Out-of-Service order violations

Out-of-Service order violations

An out-of-service order is issued when a driver or vehicle is deemed unsafe to operate due to reasons such as fatigue, mechanical defects, or failing drug and alcohol tests. Ignoring this order and continuing to drive a commercial motor vehicle not only puts public safety at risk but also leads to harsh penalties, including heavy fines and CDL disqualification. You should avoid the following behaviors:

• Operating a CMV while under an out-of-service order
• Transporting hazardous materials while under an out-of-service order
• Transporting 15 or more passengers while under an out-of-service order
• A second or subsequent out-of-service violation within 10 years (stricter if involving hazmat or passenger transport)
• A third or subsequent out-of-service violation within 10 years (long-term disqualification)

Other disqualifying offenses

In addition to drug, alcohol, and serious traffic violations, there are several other offenses that can also put your CDL at risk in New Jersey. To protect your career and stay compliant with the law, make sure to avoid the following behaviors:

• Leaving the scene of an accident (hit-and-run): A first offense results in a minimum 1-year CDL disqualification.
• Causing a fatality through negligent CMV operation: Leads to at least 1 year of disqualification, with the possibility of longer suspension depending on the severity of the case.
• Using a CMV to commit a felony: A first offense carries a 1-year disqualification, while offenses involving controlled substances or human trafficking result in lifetime CDL revocation.
• Texting while driving a CMV: Drivers face fines of up to $2,750 and a 60-day disqualification.
• Using a hand-held mobile phone while operating a CMV can lead to fines of up to $11,000 and 60 to 120 days of CDL suspension.

FAQs

1. Can felons get a CDL in New Jersey?

Yes. In many cases, felons can get a CDL in New Jersey. Having a felony conviction does not automatically bar you from obtaining a CDL. However, there are some limitations and additional checks depending on the type of CDL endorsements you need.

2. Does a DUI disqualify you from getting a CDL in New Jersey?

Yes. Driving under the influence (DUI) can disqualify you from obtaining a CDL in New Jersey, as it may result in either a suspension or a permanent revocation of your CDL. The outcome depends on the number of offenses and whether the violation occurred in a commercial vehicle or a personal vehicle. A first DUI conviction while operating a commercial vehicle typically results in a one-year CDL disqualification, while a second offense can lead to a lifetime CDL revocation.

Conclusion

Understanding New Jersey CDL disqualifications is essential for every commercial driver. The consequences of even a single violation can be extremely serious, which is why it’s crucial to fully understand these regulations. Always remember that safety comes first, and drive responsibly to protect yourself and those around you!