Getting your CDL is a big step toward a professional truck driving career. It takes discipline, responsibility, and a commitment to safety. These qualities are non-negotiable for anyone behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle. If you’ve got a reckless driving conviction on your record, you may be wondering if that road is still open to you. The truth is, it’s a serious mark against your record, and no reputable carrier takes it lightly.

That said, the trucking industry sees people from all walks of life, many of whom have had setbacks but worked hard to earn a second chance. It’s not about being lenient, it’s about being realistic. Here’s what to expect, how to move forward, and how to position yourself for a successful driving career. 

What Counts as Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving isn’t just a heavy foot on the gas. It’s typically defined as operating a vehicle with willful disregard for the safety of people or property. While specific definitions vary by state, the intent behind the law is the same: reckless driving shows a conscious choice to put yourself and others in danger.

Here are some examples that often qualify as reckless driving:

• Driving 25 mph or more over the speed limit
  
  
• Racing on public roads
  
  
• Aggressive lane changes or tailgating
  
  
• Running red lights or stop signs intentionally
  
  
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  
  

Depending on the severity and circumstances, reckless driving can be charged as a misdemeanor or, in cases involving injury or property damage, even as a felony. In addition to fines and potential jail time, convictions typically come with points on your license, possible license suspension, and lasting damage to your driving record.

Can You Still Get a CDL With a Reckless Driving Conviction?

In short, yes, but there are some important caveats. A reckless driving conviction doesn't automatically disqualify you from earning a commercial driver’s license. However, your eligibility depends heavily on the details of the offense and your record since the violation. 

These are important factors that can determine your eligibility:

• How long ago the violation occurred
  
  
• Whether your license was suspended or revoked
  
  
• If there were other violations on your record
  
  
• If you’ve had multiple reckless driving offenses
  
  

While the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets national standards for CDL disqualifications, state Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs) handle CDL issuance. That means the impact of your record can vary depending on where you live. Check your specific state DMV guidelines for more precise eligibility details.

For reference, the FMCSA includes reckless driving under its list of serious traffic violations in §383.51 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. If you rack up two or more serious violations within a three-year period while holding a CDL, you could face disqualification for 60 days or more. A third offense in the same window may result in a 120-day disqualification.

So, while a single past reckless driving charge may not prevent you from getting your CDL, repeated offenses, or a recent conviction, can complicate things significantly.

How Your Reckless Driving Record Affects the CDL Process

Your record will come into play at several points on your journey to becoming a commercial driver.

1. CDL School Enrollment

Some CDL training schools have policies that restrict applicants with certain violations on their record. If your reckless driving conviction is recent, you may be denied admission or asked to wait a few years before applying. However, many schools consider the time passed since the incident, the overall record, and whether your license is valid and in good standing.

2. State Licensing Review

Before you can take the written or skills tests, your state’s DMV will review your motor vehicle record (MVR). If your license was suspended or revoked as part of your reckless driving charge, you’ll need to get that cleared first. Some states may also require completion of defensive driving courses or other documentation proving rehabilitation.

3. FMCSA Guidelines and Disqualification Rules

Even if your reckless driving occurred while driving a personal vehicle, it still counts under federal regulations once you hold a CDL. Two or more serious violations within three years can disqualify you from operating a commercial motor vehicle for a set period, even if those violations happened in a non-commercial vehicle.

You can review the FMCSA’s full list of serious traffic violations here.

What About Getting Hired With a Reckless Driving Conviction?

After you’ve earned your CDL, the biggest hurdle will be landing a job. Most carriers review your full driving history and assess risk based on what they find. A reckless driving conviction is going to raise red flags, especially when it comes to insurance.

Even if a carrier is open to hiring you, their insurance provider might not be. In many cases, insurers will either raise premiums significantly or refuse to insure drivers with a recent reckless driving record. That’s a huge factor in hiring decisions.

How to Improve Your Chances After a Reckless Driving Conviction

If you’re serious about a trucking career and have a reckless driving conviction on your record, there are practical steps you can take to strengthen your case:

Get a copy of your MVR. Before applying to CDL school or a company, know exactly what’s on your record. You can usually request your MVR through your state’s DMV website.

Wait it out if needed. If your conviction was recent, you may need to wait a few years before applying. Most carriers are more likely to consider applicants who have been violation-free for three to five years.

Take a defensive driving course. Completing a course voluntarily shows initiative and a genuine commitment to safer driving habits.

Be honest. Always disclose your record when asked. Trying to hide a conviction will almost always backfire when a background check is done.

Focus on building a clean record from now on. If you’re still driving a personal vehicle, make sure to follow every traffic law to the letter. Your future depends on it.

Choose the right training program. Some CDL schools are more willing to work with students who have violations on their record and may even help connect you with carriers that are open to second-chance applicants.

Can You Build a Career in Trucking After a Reckless Driving Charge?

A reckless driving charge will make the road tougher, but not impossible. What matters most is how you respond. It requires patience, consistency, and a strong commitment to safety moving forward. Many drivers come to the trucking industry later in life after switching careers or needing a fresh start. A prior reckless driving charge doesn’t mean you’re a lost cause. But it does mean you have to prove yourself, especially during your first year behind the wheel. Carriers will be watching your safety record closely, and a clean year or two on the job can go a long way toward rebuilding trust.

Know the Rules, Know the Road Ahead

Every driver’s situation is different. That’s why it’s important to know the exact rules in your state and how federal guidelines apply to your case. If you’re unsure where you stand, start by reviewing the FMCSA’s official disqualification criteria and your state’s licensing policies.

You can also review our article, covering other common disqualifiers, including medical conditions and DUI offenses.