Ohio Commercial Driver’s License Defense

Charles is a frequent speaker and a prolific writer on all matters related to OVI / DUI defense.

If you have an Ohio commercial driver’s license (CDL), and you face an OVI (operating a vehicle while impaired, a.k.a. drunk driving or DUI) you face severe and lasting punishments. Protecting you Ohio Commercial Driver’s License involves hearings in both the charging jurisdiction (the Court) and hearings at the Ohio BMV.

First things first… If you have a CDL and you are charged with an OVI, you will receive a disqualification letter from the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. I WILL NOT know about this disqualification unless you tell me. The Ohio BMV does not copy your attorney on this filing. Upon receipt, contact me and let me know so that I can start defending your case. Here is what will happen.

1. Request a hearing: The first step is the file a request for a hearing with the BMV. This hearing will take place in Columbus and your presence will be required.

2. Attend the hearing: The BMV will schedule a hearing with an attorney hearing examiner. You can bring a CDL defense attorney to represent you.

3. Receive a report: The hearing examiner will issue a report and recommendation.

4. File objections: You have 10 days to file objections to the report.

5. Receive a final order: The BMV will issue a final order on the disqualification of your Ohio Commercial Driver’s License.

6. Appeal to the Court of Common Pleas: If you disagree with the final order, you can appeal to the Court of Common Pleas in the county where you live.

The hearings before the Ohio BMV are independent of any court hearings. Call DaytonDUI.com at (937) 318-1384 if you have questions about an OVI charge. I am committed to protecting your rights because my father had a CDL (he hauled coal) and I would not be an attorney without his hard work. My family is also involved in the industry. I want to be your OVI attorney.

Ohio Commercial Driver License Manual

We have been asked to provide an overview of Ohio laws as it applies to the licensing of commerical drivers. Follow this LINK to download the Ohio Commercial Driver License Manual. This information is provided by Ohio and covers issues beyond driving while impaired, DUI, OVI, or CDL disqualification.

If you need to speak to an Ohio CDL attorney, please give me a call. While I limit my practice to representing the accused drunk driver, we can steer you in the right direction when it comes to protecting your Ohio CDL.