If you drive for a living, your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is your livelihood. In North Carolina, a single speeding ticket can put that livelihood at risk — even if the violation happens in your personal vehicle. CDL holders are held to stricter legal standards than other drivers, and the consequences for traffic violations can be severe.
At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we’ve helped commercial drivers in Hickory, Newton, and across Catawba County protect their CDLs and keep their careers on track. Here’s what you need to know about speeding tickets and your CDL in North Carolina.
1. Why Speeding Tickets Are a Bigger Problem for CDL Holders
For most drivers, a speeding ticket means fines, DMV points, and higher insurance rates. For CDL holders, it can mean much more:
- Employer discipline — Many trucking companies have zero-tolerance policies for moving violations.
- Disqualification periods — Two “serious traffic violations” within three years can lead to a 60-day CDL suspension.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSA) compliance — Speeding 15+ mph over the limit is considered a “serious” violation under federal law.
2. What Counts as a “Serious Traffic Violation” for CDL Holders
In North Carolina, the following can threaten your CDL:
- Driving 15 mph or more over the speed limit
- Reckless driving
- Following too closely
- Improper lane changes
- Any moving violation related to a fatal accident
Even if the ticket is from driving your personal vehicle, it still counts against your CDL.
3. Steps to Protect Your CDL After a Speeding Ticket
#### Hire an Experienced Traffic Attorney Immediately
A lawyer who understands both state traffic laws and CDL regulations can negotiate to reduce or amend your ticket to something that won’t trigger a CDL suspension.
#### Avoid Pleading Guilty Without Legal Advice
Simply paying the fine is the same as admitting guilt. This can immediately put points on your record and count toward CDL disqualification.
#### Consider Negotiating for “Improper Equipment”
In some cases, an attorney can get a speeding ticket reduced to Improper Equipment, which carries no points on your license — but this option is limited for CDL drivers and depends on the circumstances.
#### Keep a Clean Record Moving Forward
Even one violation can put you under more scrutiny. Avoid risky driving behaviors and stay informed about speed limits, especially in work zones and school zones.
4. How King & Rowe Can Help CDL Holders
At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we:
- Appear in court on your behalf whenever possible, so you don’t have to miss work
- Work to negotiate reduced charges that protect your CDL and your job
- Fight tickets aggressively in cases where the evidence is weak or procedures weren’t followed
We represent drivers in Catawba, Caldwell, & Burke counties, and we know how important it is to protect your ability to earn a living.
If you’re a CDL holder facing a speeding ticket in North Carolina, call King & Rowe today at 828-466-3858 for a confidential consultation. Protect your license, your record, and your career.
