EE: Elbaz | Elbaz Attorneys At Law

Call For A Free Consultation 678-573-4444

EE: Elbaz | Elbaz Attorneys At Law
Call: 678-573-4444

Relentless Trial Defense That Delivers Results

The Gwinnett County Lawyers To Turn To For CDL DUI Charges

Last updated on November 19, 2025

For commercial drivers, a driving under the influence (DUI) charge can threaten more than just their driving privileges. It can put their entire career at risk. If convicted, you can lose your commercial driver’s license (CDL) for a year or more. In severe cases, they may lose their CDL permanently.

When the potential consequences are this severe, it’s crucial to work with attorneys who understand what is at stake and are ready to fight against it. At Elbaz & Elbaz, LLC, we defend different.™ While in many CDL DUI cases, we can reach a resolution through negotiation, our attorneys always prepare as if we are going to trial. You can rest easy knowing our lawyers will work relentlessly to protect your CDL and your livelihood.

Understanding Georgia’s Stricter DUI Rules For CDL Holders

If you have a CDL, Georgia holds you to a higher standard when it comes to DUI charges. Here’s what you need to know:

  • What is the blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for commercial drivers? When driving a commercial vehicle, the BAC limit is .04%. That is only half the .08% limit for driving a regular car.
  • What if you get a DUI in your personal car? Even a standard DUI (.08% or higher) in your personal car can cause you to lose your CDL if convicted.
  • What happens if you refuse a breath or blood test? Refusing a test can lead to serious license consequences that will impact your CDL. For example, a first refusal typically results in a one-year “hard” suspension of all driving privileges, including your CDL, with no limited permit available.

After a CDL DUI arrest, there will be an automatic license suspension, and you typically have only 30 days to appeal it. If this happens to you or your loved one, our attorneys can help. One option is to file an administrative license suspension (ALS) hearing request. Alternatively, if you are eligible, we can assist you in applying for an ignition interlock device limited permit to preserve your noncommercial driving privileges.

Can You Lose Your CDL Due To A DUI?

Yes. A CDL DUI conviction poses a significant threat to your person’s license (both commercial and regular) and career. Penalties may include:

  • Disqualification of one’s regular license and CDL: A first DUI conviction typically results in a one-year disqualification of a driver’s CDL. This period increases to three years if they were transporting hazardous materials (HAZMAT). A second conviction usually leads to a CDL disqualification for life. In either situation, they may have their noncommercial driving privileges suspended as well.
  • Jail time: Even for a first offense, a CDL DUI conviction in Georgia carries a prison sentence ranging from a minimum of 10 days up to 12 months, depending on the circumstances. Of that sentence, a judge must impose a mandatory minimum of 24 hours in jail if the driver’s BAC was 0.08g or more. Succeeding convictions often lead to longer mandatory jail sentences.
  • Job loss and hiring difficulties: Many trucking companies have strict policies against DUIs, leading to immediate termination. A CDL DUI conviction will also appear on a driver’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), which can make applying to future jobs difficult.
  • Increased insurance costs: A DUI conviction can dramatically increase insurance premiums for both personal and commercial policies.

A DUI conviction can disqualify your CDL and lead to job loss. Your regular license will likely be suspended separately. Our lawyers understand both the criminal charges and the administrative license actions, and we fight to protect your license and your ability to earn a living.

Defense Strategies Against CDL DUI Charges

At Elbaz & Elbaz, LLC, our lawyers build a trial-ready defense from day one. After the first call, our attorneys will begin investigating every aspect of the arrest, and challenge the validity of the state’s evidence. This includes:

  • The traffic stop: Did the officer have a valid legal reason to pull you over? Did they improperly extend the stop?
  • Field sobriety tests: Were instructions clear? Were the tests administered correctly? Did road conditions or medical issues affect your performance?
  • Breath and blood tests: Was the breathalyzer calibrated correctly? Was the blood draw performed properly? Were there issues with the chain of custody for the sample? Could rising blood alcohol levels affect the results?
  • Video evidence: Does bodycam or dashcam footage contradict the officer’s report?

Our lawyers will file targeted motions to suppress any illegally obtained evidence. While we prepare every case for trial, we may also pursue negotiations for reduced charges if it aligns with your needs and situation. Rest assured that our attorneys will walk you through your options and the appropriate strategies with you every step of the way

Get Clear Answers About CDL DUI Charges: Call Us Today

A DUI arrest can be stressful and confusing, especially when it involves your CDL. Knowing your next steps and critical deadlines is key. Our criminal defense attorneys at Elbaz & Elbaz, LLC, are here to provide that clarity.

We advise you to secure legal counsel before discussing the arrest details with anyone, including law enforcement. Call 678-573-4444 or message us online for a free, confidential consultation. Our lawyers will review your case and explain how we can support you in protecting your record and your livelihood.