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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cdl-any-alcohol-24-hours-oos

A CMV driver has a detectable amount of alcohol, but under 0.04. What happens?

They are put out of service for 24 hours.

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  1. Nothing, it is under the limit
  2. Lose the CDL for one year
  3. Out of service for 24 hours ✔

Why: Any detected alcohol while on duty breaks the federal rule, even under 0.04. The driver is placed out of service for 24 hours.

Huh, didn't know that: The driver must tell their employer about the order within 24 hours.

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References

Answer: Out of service for 24 hours. Any detected alcohol while on duty breaks the federal rule, even under 0.04. The driver is placed out of service for 24 hours.

  1. California Commercial Driver Handbook (DMV) www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/file/california-commercial-driver-handbook-pdf
    You will be put out of service for 24 hours if you have any detectable amount of alcohol under .04 percent.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. 49 CFR 392.5 Alcohol prohibition (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/section-392.5
    shall be placed out-of-service immediately for a period of 24 hours
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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