What Disqualifies You from Getting a CDL in Michigan?

Getting a CDL in Michigan opens doors to stable and rewarding careers in transportation and logistics. However, strict regulations from both the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) enforce conditions that may disqualify applicants or current CDL holders. If you’re asking, “What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Michigan?” this guide provides a clear breakdown of the most common disqualifying factors, focusing exclusively on those grounds defined by Michigan law and official CDL manuals.

Understanding CDL disqualifications in Michigan

Understanding CDL disqualifications in Michigan

CDL rules are based on federal law (49 CFR Part 383) and Michigan state law (Michigan Vehicle Code). While FMCSA sets nationwide disqualification standards, the Michigan SOS enforces them for Michigan drivers. Disqualifications can be classified into:

• Permanent: You are never eligible to hold a CDL again.
• Mandatory (temporary): Disqualified for a fixed period (60 days, 1 year, 3 years, etc.).
• Indefinite (until conditions are met): Such as medical issues or outstanding suspensions.

What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Michigan?

Earning a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Michigan is a serious commitment, and disqualifications can occur for various reasons under both FMCSA regulations and Michigan law. These disqualifications may be temporary or permanent, depending on the violation.

1. Serious traffic offenses

Serious traffic offenses

Even when alcohol or drugs are not involved, repeated serious traffic violations can disqualify a CDL holder. These violations are tracked closely by the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS). Examples of serious traffic offenses include:

• Driving 15 mph or more above the posted speed limit.
• Reckless driving.
• Improper or unsafe lane changes.
• Following another vehicle too closely.
• Operating a CMV without the proper CDL class or endorsement.

Penalties in Michigan:

• Two serious violations within three years: 60-day CDL disqualification.
• Three or more violations within three years: 120-day CDL disqualification.

2. Alcohol and drug violations

Alcohol and drug violations

Michigan enforces strict rules regarding alcohol and controlled substances under FMCSA regulations. CDL drivers are held to a higher standard than regular drivers. Violations include:

• Operating a CMV with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher.
• Driving a personal vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher.
• Refusing a breath, blood, or urine test under Michigan’s implied consent law.
• Consuming alcohol within 4 hours of operating a CMV.
• Possessing or using controlled substances while operating a CMV.

Penalties in Michigan:

• Immediate 24-hour out-of-service order for alcohol violations.
• One-year CDL disqualification for DUI or refusal of a test (three years if transporting hazardous materials).
• Lifetime CDL disqualification for a second DUI or drug-related violation.

3. Railroad-highway grade crossing violations

Railroad-highway grade crossing violations

Because of the high risks at railroad crossings, Michigan law imposes strict penalties on CDL drivers who ignore safety requirements. Violations include:

• Failing to stop when required at a crossing.
• Driving through a crossing without sufficient clearance.
• Ignoring traffic signals, stop signs, or flaggers at a crossing.

Penalties in Michigan:

• First offense: 60-day disqualification.
• Second offense within three years: 120-day disqualification.
• Third offense within three years: 1-year disqualification.

4. Out-of-service order violations

Out-of-service order violations

A driver or vehicle may be placed “out of service” for mechanical defects, unsafe conditions, or hours-of-service violations. Disobeying such an order carries severe consequences.

Penalties in Michigan:

• First violation: 180 days to 1 year CDL disqualification.
• Second violation within 10 years: 2 to 5 years disqualification.
• If transporting hazardous materials, penalties are significantly increased.

5. Felony convictions involving a CMV

Not all felonies automatically disqualify a driver, but serious crimes involving a commercial vehicle almost always do. Disqualifying felony-related violations include:

• Using a CMV to commit any felony.
• Human trafficking (results in permanent, lifetime disqualification under federal law).
• Drug trafficking or transporting controlled substances using a CMV.

Penalties in Michigan:

• Lifetime disqualification for felony misuse of a CMV.

6. Medical disqualifications

Medical disqualifications

All Michigan CDL drivers must meet federal medical standards and carry a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876). Certain health conditions can lead to temporary or permanent disqualification unless exemptions are granted.

Medical conditions that may disqualify a driver include:

• Uncontrolled epilepsy or seizure disorders.
• Insulin-dependent diabetes without a federal exemption.
• Severe vision or hearing impairments that do not meet FMCSA minimum standards.
• Significant cardiovascular, respiratory, or neurological conditions that impair the safe operation of a CMV.

Penalties in Michigan:

• A driver is disqualified until medical clearance is obtained.
• Federal or state medical waivers may allow drivers to return to work under specific conditions.

7. Personal driving record violations

Personal driving record violations

Your personal driving history also impacts CDL eligibility. Even violations committed in a non-commercial vehicle can result in CDL penalties. Disqualifying situations include:

• A DUI or drug-related conviction while operating a personal vehicle will result in a minimum 1-year CDL disqualification.
• A second offense of DUI in any vehicle can lead to lifetime CDL disqualification.
• Suspension or revocation of a standard Michigan driver’s license will cause automatic invalidation of the CDL.

8. Accumulated points and convictions

Michigan maintains a point-based system to monitor driving behavior, and accumulating too many points can jeopardize your ability to obtain or retain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Here’s how it works:

• 6 points: Reckless driving, DUI (operating while intoxicated), refusal to take a chemical test, vehicular manslaughter, fleeing an officer
• 4 points: Speeding 16 mph or more over the limit, drag racing, impaired driving, underage DUI
• 3 points: Speeding 11–15 mph over the limit, careless driving, disobeying traffic signals, failure to stop for a school bus
• 2 points: Minor violations (e.g., under 10 mph speeding, open container, other moving violations)

If a driver accumulates 12 or more points within 24 months, Michigan law requires a mandatory driver reexamination. During this process, the Secretary of State may impose probation, suspend the driver’s license, or in severe cases, revoke it entirely. 

For commercial drivers, the consequences are even more serious: once a personal (Class O) driver’s license is suspended or revoked, the commercial driver’s license (CDL) is automatically disqualified under Michigan law.

In addition to the general point system, Michigan has a stricter rule for CDL applicants. If you have 6 or more points from qualifying violations in the 24 months before applying for a CDL, you are not eligible to be issued a CDL.

FAQs

1. Can you get a CDL in Michigan with a felony?

Yes, but it depends on the type of felony. Not all felony convictions permanently disqualify someone from holding a CDL in Michigan. However, certain offenses automatically trigger lifetime disqualification under both federal and Michigan law. These include using a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) to commit a felony, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. Other felony convictions, such as non-CMV-related felonies, may not prevent you from applying, but they can still make the licensing process more difficult due to background checks, employer hiring policies, and potential probation restrictions.

2. How long after a DUI can you get a CDL in Michigan?

If you are convicted of a DUI while holding or applying for a CDL in Michigan, you face a minimum one-year disqualification from operating a CMV (three years if the offense involved transporting hazardous materials). A second DUI offense results in a lifetime CDL disqualification, with the possibility of reinstatement after 10 years if certain conditions are met. If the DUI occurred in a personal vehicle, your standard driver’s license may be suspended or revoked, which automatically disqualifies your CDL until you regain full driving privileges.

Final thoughts

Understanding what disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Michigan is essential for anyone pursuing or maintaining a trucking career. Offenses such as DUIs, felonies, excessive points on your record, or medical disqualifications can lead to suspension or even lifetime bans. Staying compliant with Michigan and FMCSA rules not only protects your license but also secures your livelihood in the transportation industry. Thus, drive safely, maintain your health, and stay informed because your CDL is the foundation of your career.