CDL Withdrawal? Steps to Reinstate Your Commercial Driver’s License

How to Resolve a CDL Withdrawal and Avoid Future Issues

Removing a withdrawal from your CDL depends on why it was withdrawn and which state issued it, because every state DMV follows its own process in line with FMCSA and state regulations.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll generally need to do:

1. Understand the Reason for the Withdrawal

A CDL can be withdrawn, suspended, revoked, or disqualified for different reasons:

• Medical: Expired or failed DOT medical card, or not submitting an updated card on time.
• Administrative: Not paying a fine, child support issues, failure to appear in court.
• Violations: DUI, serious traffic violations, out-of-service order violations, etc.
• Self-certification: Not updating your self-certification with your state DMV.

Your first step is to check your withdrawal notice or motor vehicle record (MVR) to confirm the exact reason.

2. Resolve the Underlying Issue

You can’t remove a withdrawal until the cause is cleared. For example:

• Medical withdrawal → Get a valid DOT medical card and submit it to your DMV (often in person or via their CDL medical certification office).
• Administrative → Pay outstanding fines, child support, or court fees; get clearance from the relevant agency.
• Violation-based → Complete required suspension period, court orders, or required driver improvement courses.
• Self-certification lapse → File updated self-certification with the DMV and provide medical card if needed.

3. Provide Proof to the State

Once fixed, you’ll need to take documentation to your DMV. This could include:

• Valid DOT medical examiner’s certificate.
• Clearance letters from court or agency.
• Proof of payment for fees or fines.
• Completion certificates for reinstatement classes.

4. Apply for CDL Reinstatement

• Pay any reinstatement fees (varies by state).
• If your CDL has been expired or downgraded too long, you may need to retest knowledge and/or skills.
• Some states process reinstatement immediately; others may take several days to update FMCSA records.

5. Verify on FMCSA Clearinghouse (if drug/alcohol related)

If your withdrawal is tied to a drug or alcohol violation, you must:

• Be entered as “Return-to-Duty eligible” in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
• Complete the SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) process.
• Pass a DOT return-to-duty test before driving again.

Pro Tip:

• Always request a copy of your MVR after reinstatement to confirm the CDL status has been updated.
• If the withdrawal was in error, you can request an administrative review with your DMV.
• Keep copies of all correspondence and proof in case FMCSA or an employer requests it.

Avoid Future CDL Withdrawals

Here are some practical tips to help a driver avoid future CDL withdrawals:

1. Keep Your DOT Medical Card Up to Date

• Renew your medical certificate before it expires (most are valid for 1–2 years).
• Submit your updated card to your state DMV immediately—don’t assume your examiner does it for you.
• Keep a copy in your wallet and another in your truck.

2. Maintain Current Self-Certification

• If your driving type changes (e.g., interstate → intrastate), file a new self-certification form with the DMV right away.
• Outdated self-certification is one of the most common reasons for a CDL withdrawal.

3. Stay on Top of Administrative Obligations

• Pay all tickets, fines, and toll violations quickly.
• Keep child support obligations current to avoid automatic license actions.
• Respond promptly to all DMV or court notices.

4. Drive Safely and Avoid Disqualifying Violations

• Avoid major offenses like DUI, reckless driving, or excessive speeding.
• Keep violations off your record by following FMCSA and state rules.
• Remember: Certain serious violations can trigger automatic disqualification.

5. Stay Compliant with FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Testing

• Always comply with pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing.
• If you fail a test or refuse, follow the Return-to-Duty process before attempting to drive again.

6. Keep Your Address Updated with the DMV

• If you move, update your license address within your state’s deadline (usually 10–30 days).
• All official notices—like medical card expiration or suspension warnings—go to the address on file.

7. Track License and Certification Dates

• Use a calendar or reminder app to track:
  • CDL expiration
  • Medical card expiration
  • Hazmat endorsement renewals
• Set reminders at least 60 days before expiration dates.

Ready to take your CDL Test?

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If you are not quite ready for your test and need to start or get extra CDL training, we offer several different forms of training, including Class A CDL Training, and training for Hot Shot Trucking at our CDL school.

Now is the time to receive one-on-one CDL training with CNS Driver Training Center and get your CDL license. If you have questions, give us a call at 717-496-9145 or email us at support@cnstrains.com.