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At Emerge Career, our mission is to help you get trained, licensed, and employed as a professional CDL truck driver. A crucial part of that journey is making sure that every student has a clear and stable pathway to employment after graduation.
Before you get enrolled in trucking school, we first need to confirm that you are legally eligible to hold a Commercial Driver's License. Sometimes, past issues on a driving record can lead to a state-level disqualification, which can be a major roadblock to starting your career.
This isn't about our rules—it's about state and federal regulations that determine who can legally operate a commercial vehicle.
Why You Might Be Ineligible for a CDL
State agencies like the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV, or RMV in MA) have strict rules. A driver can be disqualified from holding a CDL for a period of time—or even for life—for certain offenses.
Common reasons for disqualification include:
- Two or more serious traffic violations (e.g., speeding 15+ mph over the limit, reckless driving).
- Driving under the influence (DUI/DWI/OUI)
- Leaving the scene of an accident.
- Using a vehicle to commit a felony.
If your record includes offenses like these, the state may have placed a disqualification on your ability to hold a CDL. But for some, there might be a path forward.
Your Action Plan: 3 Steps to Confirm Your Eligibility
If we've notified you about a potential eligibility issue, don't worry—there could be a workaround. You just need to take a few proactive steps to clear the path for your new career.
Here's exactly what you need to do:
Step 1: Get Official Proof of Eligibility from the DMV/RMV
Your first step is to contact your state's licensing agency (DMV or RMV) directly. Ask them for an official document or statement that confirms you are eligible to be issued a Commercial Driver's License. This is the only way to know for sure where you stand.
Step 2: If You're Ineligible, Petition for a Waiver
If the DMV/RMV informs you that you have a lifetime disqualification, you may have an opportunity to appeal. Both Massachusetts and New York have waiver programs that allow individuals to petition for reinstatement if they meet certain criteria.
- For Massachusetts: Visit the Lifetime Disqualification Waiver Program page to see if you qualify and to start the process.
- For New York: Review the process for a 2nd Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Waiver, which may apply to your situation.
Follow the state's instructions carefully to petition for your eligibility to be restored.
Step 3: Submit Your Documents to Emerge
Once you have completed the steps above, gather the following documents:
- A complete copy of your official state driving record.
- The official proof from the DMV/RMV confirming you are eligible for a CDL license (or proof that your waiver was approved).
Send these documents to the Emerge team at support@emergecareer.com with the subject line “Proof of CDL Eligibility – [Full Name].” This will allow us to verify your status and move you forward.
One More Step: Secure an Employer Offer Letter
Even after confirming your eligibility with the DMV/RMV, you will still need to provide a letter from an employer stating they are willing to hire you once you earn your CDL.
This step ensures that you not only meet legal requirements but also have a real job opportunity waiting for you after training. You can find full instructions and a downloadable offer letter template in our guide: How to Secure a Pre-Offer Letter in Trucking
Why This Matters
We know this process requires extra effort, but it’s essential. Confirming your eligibility protects your time, money, and energy. By taking these steps now, you ensure that when you complete your training, nothing will stand in the way of you starting your new career.
At Emerge, we believe in your potential. Let's work together to clear this hurdle and get you on the road to success.
