CDL Disqualification Laws in Illinois: What Chicago Drivers Must Know Under 625 ILCS 5/6-514 and Federal FMCSA Regulations

The Reality for Commercial Drivers in Chicago

Every day, thousands of commercial trucks and buses pass through Chicago’s expressways—routes like I-55, I-294, and Lake Shore Drive—carrying goods and passengers across Cook County and the surrounding region. The drivers behind those wheels hold one of the most scrutinized licenses in the nation: the Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL.

For these professionals, a simple traffic stop can spiral into a career-ending event. Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/6-514)and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules (49 C.F.R. § 383.51), a single mistake—like a DUI, refusing a chemical test, or even speeding 15 mph over the limit—can lead to suspension, disqualification, or permanent revocation.

At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we’ve represented countless drivers who never imagined a quick roadside stop would jeopardize their ability to work. Understanding these laws is essential for anyone who drives commercially in Chicago, Joliet, or anywhere in Cook County.

Illinois and Federal Disqualification Rules: How They Intersect

Illinois follows the federal CDL disqualification framework, but enforcement begins at the state level. 625 ILCS 5/6-514lists every offense that can disqualify a CDL holder. It separates them into categories of “major,” “serious,” and “out-of-service” violations.

Major offenses include driving under the influence (625 ILCS 5/11-501), leaving the scene of a crash (625 ILCS 5/11-401), or using a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) to commit a felony. A first major offense results in a one-year CDL disqualification, or three years if the CMV was carrying hazardous materials. A second major offense under 625 ILCS 5/6-514(b)(2) triggers a lifetime ban.

Serious offenses, such as reckless driving (625 ILCS 5/11-503), following too closely (625 ILCS 5/11-710), or speeding 15 mph over the limit, can lead to a 60- or 120-day disqualification if repeated within three years.

Out-of-service violations, governed by 625 ILCS 5/6-514(c) and 49 C.F.R. § 383.51(d), apply when a driver operates a CMV despite being ordered out of service for fatigue, mechanical failure, or safety violations.

Even seemingly minor citations—like texting while driving under 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2—count as serious violations for CDL purposes. Illinois automatically forwards such convictions to the FMCSA through the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS).

How a CDL Case Moves Through the Chicago Legal System

When a commercial driver is stopped in Chicago, the process usually begins with a police observation—speeding, improper lane use, or an accident. Officers may inspect logbooks, review ELD (Electronic Logging Device) records, or perform sobriety tests.

If the officer believes a violation of 625 ILCS 5/6-514 or 625 ILCS 5/11-501 occurred, the driver may receive a citation or be arrested. After booking, the case enters the Cook County court system—most often at the Richard J. Daley Center (50 W. Washington St.) or the Criminal Courthouse at 26th and California.

From there, the process involves several stages:

• Arraignment: Formal reading of the charge.
• Discovery: The defense demands body-camera footage, test results, and maintenance records.
• Pre-Trial Motions: Under 725 ILCS 5/114-12, your attorney may move to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.
• Trial or Plea Negotiations: The defense challenges the prosecution’s proof, cross-examines witnesses, and negotiates reductions to avoid CDL-impacting convictions.

If convicted, the court notifies the Illinois Secretary of State, which enforces the disqualification automatically. There is no leniency based on employment hardship.

The Human Impact: A Chicago Case Study

A CDL holder from Chicago’s Brighton Park neighborhood was cited for reckless driving and improper lane usage on I-55. During the stop, officers alleged that he appeared fatigued and placed him under an out-of-service order. Later that night, he drove the truck home, believing he was simply relocating it.

Under 625 ILCS 5/6-514(c)(1) and 49 C.F.R. § 383.51(d)(1), this act carried a 180-day disqualification. Facing unemployment, the driver came to our office. We subpoenaed the Illinois State Police’s inspection records and discovered that the out-of-service notice had expired before the second stop.

We argued that enforcement violated due process since the order was no longer valid. The administrative hearing officer agreed, vacating the disqualification. The driver returned to work within weeks—proof that attention to procedural details can change everything.

Evidence Law Enforcement Uses in CDL Prosecutions

Illinois prosecutors rely heavily on objective data to support CDL cases. This includes:

• Body and dash camera footage showing traffic behavior.
• Chemical test results from breath, blood, or urine under 625 ILCS 5/11-501.2.
• ELD and logbook data confirming hours-of-service compliance.
• Maintenance records proving vehicle condition.
• Officer testimony regarding probable cause and observations of impairment.

As defense attorneys, we demand and scrutinize every piece of evidence. In many CDL prosecutions, inconsistencies between reports and digital data can create reasonable doubt or demonstrate that the officer lacked probable cause for the stop.

Defenses That Can Protect a CDL

Illinois CDL defense strategies depend on both the facts and the category of offense. Common approaches include:

• Lack of Probable Cause: The initial traffic stop was unjustified.
• Faulty Testing: The breathalyzer or field sobriety tests did not meet standards in the Illinois Administrative Code § 1286.
• Clerical or Reporting Error: The Secretary of State misclassified the violation.
• Non-Commercial Operation: The driver was using a personal vehicle, making CDL disqualification inapplicable.
• Constitutional Violations: Unlawful detention or coerced statements.

Our firm’s goal is always to avoid disqualifying convictions, either through dismissal, not-guilty verdicts, or reclassification of charges that the FMCSA does not recognize as CDL-impacting.

Why CDL Cases Require an Experienced Chicago Defense Lawyer

The stakes in a CDL case are different from a standard traffic case. A non-commercial driver might pay a fine and move on. A CDL holder could lose their entire livelihood. The complexity arises because CDL penalties are enforced by both the court and the Illinois Secretary of State, under federal oversight.

A skilled Chicago criminal defense lawyer ensures that the plea, sentence, or supervision is structured to protect federal driving status. Without proper representation, drivers often learn too late that “court supervision” still counts as a conviction under federal law.

At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we represent CDL holders across Chicago, Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, and Lake County. Our office handles both criminal defense and administrative hearings—because one without the other isn’t enough.

Frequently Asked Questions: CDL Disqualifications in Illinois

Can I still drive my personal car if my CDL is disqualified?
Yes. CDL disqualification applies only to commercial driving. However, if the violation also suspends your base license, you cannot drive any vehicle until reinstated.

What is considered a “major” CDL offense?
Under 625 ILCS 5/6-514(b), major offenses include DUI, refusal of chemical testing, leaving the scene of an accident, and using a CMV in a felony. A single conviction carries a one-year disqualification; a second causes lifetime loss.

Can multiple speeding tickets disqualify me?
Yes. Two or more serious traffic violations—speeding 15 mph over, reckless driving, or improper lane use—within three years result in a 60-day CDL suspension.

How does a DUI in my personal car affect my CDL?
Even if you were driving your own vehicle, a DUI under 625 ILCS 5/11-501 counts as a major offense for CDL purposes and results in a one-year suspension.

Can I get my CDL reinstated after a lifetime ban?
Illinois allows reinstatement after 10 years if you complete an approved rehabilitation program and demonstrate safe-driving history. The Secretary of State has sole discretion.

Do out-of-state violations affect my Illinois CDL?
Yes. Illinois participates in the CDLIS system, which shares data nationwide. Any out-of-state conviction is reported and treated as if it occurred in Illinois.

Are cellphone violations serious for CDL holders?
Yes. Texting or hand-held phone use while driving violates 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 and is a “serious traffic violation” under FMCSA rules. Repeated offenses can lead to suspension.

Can court supervision protect my CDL?
No. Even supervision counts as a conviction under 49 C.F.R. § 384.226. Only dismissal, acquittal, or amendment to a non-reportable offense prevents disqualification.

What happens if I refuse a chemical test?
Refusal carries the same CDL penalties as a DUI conviction—one year for a first refusal, lifetime for a second.

Why should I call The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg?
Because CDL defense is not just about fighting a ticket—it’s about protecting your career. Our firm knows how Illinois and federal CDL laws interact and how to prevent permanent disqualification whenever possible.

Protecting Chicago’s Commercial Drivers

If your CDL is at risk due to a DUI, reckless driving, or an out-of-service order, act immediately. Waiting even a few days can eliminate your right to a hearing.

The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg provides 24-hour defense for commercial drivers in Chicago and throughout Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, and Lake County.

When You Need a Fighter, Call Us!

If you were arrested in Chicago, protect your future by contacting The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg. We have decades of experience handling criminal, DUI, and traffic cases in Illinois. Our firm is available 24/7 to provide the legal defense you deserve.

Contact us today at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to serve clients throughout Illinois, Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, and Lake County.