A traffic violation can threaten your commercial driver’s license (CDL). In New York County (Manhattan), points from a speeding ticket can trigger a CDL disqualification under NY VTL § 510. A Commercial Driver Lawyer New York from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. helps protect your livelihood. Mr. Sris has handled thousands of traffic cases firm-wide.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
What New York Law Says About CDL Violations
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) governs commercial driver licensing. Under NY VTL § 510, accumulating 9 or more points within 18 months on a CDL can result in disqualification. Serious offenses like reckless driving (VTL § 1212) or a DWI (VTL § 1192) carry mandatory disqualification periods. A Commercial Driver Lawyer New York understands these strict rules. The New York County Supreme Court handles related criminal matters at 60 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007.
External Legal Resources
- NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 510 (official New York State Senate)
- New York County Supreme Court (official court website)
Insider Procedural Edge for CDL Cases in Manhattan
In New York County, the Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB) handles most traffic tickets. TVB hearings do not allow plea bargaining. For CDL holders, this makes every hearing critical. A conviction adds points directly to your DMV record.
- Review the Ticket: Check the violation code, date, and location on your summons.
- Gather Evidence: Collect any dashcam footage, maintenance records, or witness statements.
- Request a Hearing: Plead not guilty and request a TVB hearing within 30 days.
- Prepare Your Defense: Work with your attorney to identify procedural errors or factual disputes.
- Attend the Hearing: Appear at the TVB hearing location in Manhattan on your scheduled date.
- Review the Decision: If convicted, discuss appeal options or point reduction strategies with your lawyer.
Penalties for CDL Violations in New York
In New York County (Manhattan), a CDL violation carries points, fines, and potential disqualification from driving commercially.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (11-20 mph over) | Traffic Infraction | None | $90-$300 | 4 points on CDL | Driver Responsibility Assessment |
| Reckless Driving | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | $100-$300 | 5 points; possible disqualification | Criminal record |
| DWI (Commercial Vehicle) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $500-$1,000 | 1-year CDL disqualification | Mandatory ignition interlock |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your CDL Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our firm understands the high stakes for commercial drivers. Mr. Sris personally handles CDL cases in New York County (Manhattan).
Case Results
No verifiable case result is available for this jurisdiction/topic. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Presence in New York County (Manhattan)
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts. We are accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We serve all Manhattan neighborhoods including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
Looking for a commercial driver lawyer near me New York? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New York Location
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Violations in New York
Can I lose my CDL for a speeding ticket in New York?
Yes. Accumulating 9 or more points within 18 months can disqualify your CDL. A single 6-point speeding ticket brings you close to that threshold. A Commercial Driver Lawyer New York can help you fight the points.
Does New York have a separate point system for CDL holders?
Yes. CDL holders face the same point system as regular drivers, but the consequences are stricter. Any conviction for a serious traffic violation can result in CDL disqualification under federal and state law.
What is the penalty for a first-time DWI in a commercial vehicle in New York?
A first-time DWI in a commercial vehicle is a misdemeanor carrying up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a mandatory 1-year CDL disqualification. You may also face ignition interlock requirements.
Can I get a CDL hardship license in New York after a disqualification?
No. New York does not offer hardship or restricted licenses for CDL holders during a disqualification period. You must serve the full disqualification before reapplying for your CDL.
How long does a CDL disqualification last in New York?
It depends on the offense. A first DWI in a commercial vehicle carries a 1-year disqualification. A second offense results in a lifetime ban. Serious violations like reckless driving can carry 60-day to 1-year disqualifications.
What should I do if I get a traffic ticket while driving a commercial vehicle in Manhattan?
Do not simply pay the fine. Paying the ticket is an admission of guilt and adds points to your CDL. Contact a Commercial Driver Lawyer New York immediately to discuss your options for fighting the ticket.
Related Practice Areas
- New York Traffic Lawyer
- Albany County Traffic Lawyer
- Broome County Traffic Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer New York County (Manhattan)
- Business Lawyer New York County (Manhattan)
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.