CDL Training Center

Driver Behavior, Disqualification & Your Responsibilities

This module follows the uploaded Commercial Driver Behavior & Compliance training handout and prepares learners for the 10-question Driver Behavior Knowledge Test. Section 383.51 organizes federal CDL/CLP disqualification requirements into four tables covering major offenses, serious traffic violations, railroad-highway grade crossing violations, and out-of-service order violations.

Table 2 — Serious traffic violations

The training handout states that a first qualifying serious traffic violation does not by itself produce the standard Table 2 disqualification. A second qualifying serious traffic violation in a separate incident within the specified three-year period results in a 60-day disqualification; a third or subsequent qualifying violation within that period results in a 120-day disqualification.

• Excessive speeding — 15 mph or more above the posted limit
• Reckless driving
• Improper or erratic lane changes
• Following too closely
• Certain traffic-control violations connected with a fatality
• Specified CDL licensing/class/endorsement violations while operating a CMV

Personal-vehicle conduct can matter

The handout emphasizes that CDL consequences are not limited to conduct in a commercial motor vehicle. For the relevant Table 2 violations committed in a non-CMV, the regulatory conditions—including whether the conviction results in suspension, revocation, or cancellation of non-CMV driving privileges—must be considered.

Major offenses, railroad crossings & out-of-service orders

The training material also covers Table 1 major offenses, Table 3 railroad-highway grade crossing violations, and Table 4 out-of-service order violations. Learners should understand that the applicable consequence depends on the offense, vehicle, prior history, and conditions stated in the current regulation.

Driver notification responsibilities

The uploaded training material identifies the 30-day employer-notification requirement for traffic convictions other than parking violations under § 383.31. Drivers should also review the current federal text and applicable employer/state procedures for other notification duties.

Part 380 training context

Part 380 establishes federal special training requirements, including Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). It provides important training context; § 383.51 remains the primary federal reference for the disqualification concepts covered in this driver module.

The Federal Anti-Masking Rule

Attorneys handling traffic matters involving a commercial learner's permit (CLP) or commercial driver's license (CDL) holder must account for the federal prohibition against masking traffic convictions.

The prohibition generally covers violations of state or local traffic-control laws. The regulation expressly excludes parking, vehicle-weight, and vehicle-defect violations. It applies whether the offense occurred in the driver's licensing state or another state.

Practical guidance

1. Identify CDL status early. Determine whether the defendant held a CLP or CDL when the alleged violation occurred.
2. Evaluate the proposed disposition. Base diversion, deferred judgment, amendment, reduction, or dismissal on the law, facts, evidence, and legitimate legal discretion—not merely a desire to avoid CDL consequences.
3. Do not conceal a qualifying conviction. Ensure convictions are accurately entered and transmitted through required state reporting processes.
4. Document legitimate reasons. When a charge changes for evidentiary, due-process, or another lawful reason, document that rationale according to applicable rules.
5. Coordinate when uncertain. Consult appropriate court administrators, attorneys, licensing authorities, or knowledgeable counsel.