CAN I LOSE MY CDL OVER ONE TRAFFIC TICKET IN MISSOURI?

If you’re a commercial driver in Missouri, your livelihood depends on keeping your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) clean. But what happens when you get a speeding ticket, or any traffic violation? Can you lose your CDL over just one offense?

Unfortunately, the answer is: yes, depending on the violation.

At Speeding Ticket KC, our experienced Kansas City traffic defense attorneys help Missouri CDL drivers fight to protect their licenses, their jobs, and their driving records. Here’s what every commercial driver should know.

WHY CDL DRIVERS ARE HELD TO A HIGHER STANDARD

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) holds commercial drivers to stricter standards than the average motorist. That means tickets that might be minor for everyday drivers can be major for CDL holders.

Missouri follows FMCSA regulations—and your CDL is at risk even if you weren’t driving a commercial vehicle when ticketed.

SERIOUS TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS THAT CAN THREATEN YOUR CDL

According to Missouri law and federal regulations, the following “serious traffic violations” can lead to CDL suspension:

• Speeding 15+ mph over the posted limit
• Reckless driving
• DUI
• Improper or erratic lane changes
• Following too closely
• Traffic violations in connection with a fatal accident
• Driving a commercial vehicle without a valid CDL or proper endorsements

If you are convicted of two or more violations within three years, your CDL can be disqualified for 60 days. A third conviction can trigger a 120-day disqualification.

In other words: one ticket might not cost you everything, but it puts you on a short leash.

CAN I LOSE MY CDL FOR A TICKET IN MY PERSONAL VEHICLE?

Yes, absolutely. Many commercial drivers are surprised to learn that violations in a personal car still count toward CDL suspensions. For example, a serious speeding ticket in your own pickup truck could still result in disqualification.

Even DUI, refusal to submit to a BAC test, or driving with a suspended license—regardless of vehicle type, can result in mandatory CDL revocation.

SHOULD I JUST PAY THE FINE AND MOVE ON

No! That’s the worst thing you can do. Paying a Missouri traffic ticket is the same as pleading guilty. That conviction will go on your record and may:

• Count as a serious offense for CDL disqualification
• Add points to your Missouri driving record
• Trigger employer discipline or termination
• Increase your insurance premiums

The smarter move? Contact a Kansas City traffic defense lawyer who knows how to fight CDL-related tickets, before it affects your job.

HOW CAN SPEEDING TICKET KC HELP CDL DRIVERS?

At Speeding Ticket KC, we’ve helped hundreds of commercial drivers protect their CDLs, minimize points, and keep tickets off their records.

Here’s what we can do for you:

• Fight for a reduction or dismissal of your ticket
• Appear in court on your behalf (in most cases)
• Negotiate non-moving violations to protect your record
• Help you avoid points and keep your CDL intact
• Communicate with employers if needed

We understand what’s at stake, because your career depends on it.

CONTACT SPEEDING TICKET KC TODAY

Time is critical. Many traffic cases in Missouri have tight deadlines, and once a conviction hits your record, it’s often too late to undo the damage. Don’t let one mistake cost you your job. If you’ve been ticketed, even in your personal vehicle, reach out now.

Call Speeding Ticket KC today to schedule a free consultation to speak to one of our affordable Missouri traffic defense attorneys near you. We’ll walk you through your options and fight to keep your CDL and your future secure.