What Happens If You Are Charged With DWI While Driving on a Commercial License in MN?

For commercial drivers in Minnesota, a DWI (Driving While Impaired) charge is more than just a traffic violation. It can jeopardize your career, your income, and your ability to provide for your family. 

Because commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) carry stricter rules and harsher penalties, even a single mistake can have lasting consequences. Get an assessment today and protect your life and your job. 

If you drive professionally, understanding how Minnesota law treats DWI charges for CDL holders is critical to protecting your future.

Minnesota’s strict DWI laws for commercial drivers

Under Minnesota Statute §169A.20, it is illegal for any driver to operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other controlled substances. However, commercial drivers are held to a lower legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold than non-commercial drivers:

• Commercial drivers: BAC of 0.04% or higher while operating a commercial vehicle is considered a DWI. 
• Non-commercial drivers: BAC of 0.08% or higher triggers a DWI charge. 

This means CDL holders can face serious charges at just half the BAC limit of other drivers.

Immediate consequences of a DWI on a CDL

If you are arrested for DWI while driving a commercial vehicle, your CDL privileges are at risk right away. Consequences can include:

• Immediate CDL disqualification: A first-time offense results in a one-year CDL disqualification. If transporting hazardous materials, the disqualification increases to three years. 
• License revocation: Your standard driver’s license may also be suspended. 
• Employment consequences: Many trucking companies have zero-tolerance policies, which could mean immediate job loss. 
• Increased insurance costs: A DWI conviction often results in skyrocketing insurance premiums. 

Penalties for DWI convictions

Minnesota has escalating penalties for DWI offenses, even for CDL holders. These may include:

• First-time offense: Up to 90 days in jail, fines, and license suspension. 
• Second offense: Minimum one-year license revocation and mandatory penalties. 
• Third offense: Longer revocation periods, vehicle forfeiture, and potential felony charges. 
• Felony-level DWI: A fourth or subsequent DWI within 10 years can be charged as a felony, carrying severe prison time and permanent CDL revocation. 

Can you get a restricted CDL after a DWI?

Unlike standard driver’s licenses, Minnesota does not issue work permits or restricted licenses for CDL holders. If your CDL is disqualified, you cannot legally drive any commercial vehicle during that period. This makes fighting your charges with the help of a skilled attorney even more important.

DWI charges are more common than you might think

However, these cases might happen more often than you think. From 2020 to 2024, Minnesota recorded 125,323 DWI arrests, showing just how often drivers face these charges. 

Enforcement remains strong across the state, and even responsible drivers can find themselves in this difficult situation.

Being arrested for DWI can feel isolating, but you are not alone. At Martine Law, we have helped countless Minnesotans navigate the legal system, protect their rights, and work toward the best possible outcome. Our team is prepared, experienced, and ready to guide you every step of the way.

If you are facing a DWI charge, you deserve a defense team that understands both the law and your needs. We are here to help.

Defending against a CDL DWI charge

A DWI charge does not automatically mean conviction. Common defense strategies include:

• Challenging the traffic stop: If police did not have a valid reason to stop your vehicle, the evidence may be suppressed. 
• Questioning BAC results: Breathalyzer or blood test errors are not uncommon and can be challenged. 
• Proving you were not impaired: Other medical conditions or improper procedures could have caused false positives. 
• Negotiating reduced penalties: A lawyer may help reduce charges or minimize the impact on your CDL. 

What to do if you are charged with CDL DWI

Here are steps you should take immediately:

1. Do not admit guilt. Anything you say may be used against you. 
2. Hire a Minnesota DWI lawyer. A skilled Minneapolis DWI attorney can evaluate your case and guide your defense. 
3. Act quickly on your license. You only have a limited time to challenge a license revocation. 
4. Document everything. Write down what happened before and during the stop to help your lawyer build your case. 

How Martine Law can help commercial drivers

At Martine Law, we understand what’s at stake when a CDL driver is charged with DWI. Your career and livelihood are on the line, and we will fight to protect your license and your future. Our team provides:

• Aggressive defense in court and administrative hearings 
• Support through complex license reinstatement processes 
• Compassionate guidance every step of the way 

Call (866) 865-9734 or schedule a consultation online today.

Key takeaways

• Minnesota CDL drivers face a lower BAC threshold of 0.04% for DWI charges. 
• A first offense results in a one-year CDL disqualification with no work permit options. 
• Convictions carry serious jail time, fines, and long-term career consequences. 
• Legal representation is essential to protect your license and fight for your future.