CDL Licenses

Serious violations include driving without a CDL or not having it with you when you were stopped, speeding 15 mph or more over the legal limit, following too closely, using a cell phone while driving, improper lane change and texting while driving. If you are convicted two or more times of a serious violation within three years you will lose your CDL for sixty days. If you are convicted of three or more serious violations within three years, you will lose your CDL for 120 days.

Major violations include the manufacturing or delivery of a controlled substance, driving under the influence, leaving the scene of an accident, negligently killing another while operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), and driving a CMV while your CDL is suspended, revoked or cancelled. Generally, the first conviction of a major violation will result in your CDL being disqualified for one year. A second violation will result in your CDL being disqualified for life.

Illinois law enforcement has the ability to issue what are called "out-of-service orders." These orders restrict a CDL driver or CMV from operating for a specific period of time.

Railroad-Highway Grade Cross (RRHGC) violations are those violations regarding the crossing of railroad tracks. Pursuant to Illinois law, CDL drivers are required to obey all railroad traffic signs and signals and stop or slow down before crossing railroad tracks. Violations of RRHGC laws can result in CDL disqualifications spanning from months to years.