What Are The Most Common CDL Violations?

Even minor moving violations can put your commercial driver’s license in jeopardy. Whether you are a new CDL holder or a veteran in the transportation industry, understanding the most common types of traffic tickets can help you avoid sanctions.

These are some of the most frequent types of citations received by CDL drivers in Pennsylvania and across state lines.

Disqualification offenses

Pennsylvania may suspend a driver’s CDL privileges for one year for a first-time disqualification offense, or three years for a CDL with hazmat certification. Common violations in this category include:

• Driving a commercial vehicle with a canceled, suspended or revoked CDL
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Committing a felony using a commercial vehicle

Serious offenses

Less severe violations can result in a 60-day CDL disqualification for the first offense. Common examples of serious offense include:

• Traveling at more than 15 miles per hour over the posted speed limit in a commercial vehicle or in a personal vehicle in a posted work or school zone
• Following too closely in a commercial vehicle
• Weaving or changing lanes erratically when driving a commercial vehicle
• Using a smartphone or device while driving a commercial vehicle
• Driving a commercial vehicle without obtaining the appropriate license, class or endorsements
• Driving recklessly and putting others in harm’s way in either a personal or commercial vehicle

Pennsylvania also mandates 60-day CDL disqualification for violations that involve unsafe railroad crossings. Examples include entering a crossing without stopping at a required stop, entering an unclear track when stopping is optional, and crossing without proper clearance for the vehicle’s undercarriage.