How Violation Points Can Lead to Suspension of a California CDL

Like many states, California uses a license demerit point system to keep track of unsafe drivers. These points have special application to commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) and commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). This article explains when points apply, how they are valued, and when they lead to CDL suspension and other penalties.

How Points Affect Your California CDL

Generally, a driver who acquires four points in 12 months, six points in 24 months, or eight points in 36 months can be deemed a "negligent operator of a motor vehicle." This designation normally gives the DMV authority to suspend the driver's license for up to one year.

However, for CDL holders, the point thresholds for suspension and the number of points you'll receive for a violation are different.(Cal. Veh. Code § 12810.5 (2024); Cal. Veh. Code § 13359 (2024).)

How California Counts License Points for Commercial Vehicles

Violations committed while driving a CMV will be valued at one-and-one-half the normal point value. This results in a quicker accrual of demerit points. For instance, a violation normally resulting in four points will result in six points if it occurs in a commercial vehicle.

Number of License Points That Will Result in California CDL Suspension

The good news is California law gives CDL holders a bit of leeway with the point thresholds that result in suspension. For commercial drivers, the DMV's suspension authority is triggered by six points in a 12-month period, eight points in a 24-month period, or ten points in a 36-month period.

However, the law affords this leeway only if the driver requests and appears for a DMV hearing (see below).

CDL Suspension Period for License Points

Once a driver reaches one of the point limits, the DMV will suspend the driver's commercial license for up to one year. The driver must also maintain proof of insurance for three years.

Traffic School Isn't an Option for CDL Point Relief

For most drivers, completing traffic school is an option for removing license points. But violations occurring in a CMV aren't eligible for point forgiveness through traffic school.

Requesting a Hearing for License Point Suspensions

A driver subject to a point-related suspension can request a hearing before the suspension date. The hearing officer has the authority to reduce or modify the suspension period. As noted above, to receive the benefit of the more relaxed point suspension thresholds, the driver must request and appear for a DMV hearing.