Getting pulled over on I-5 for speeding in a commercial vehicle can be stressful, especially for CDL holders.
Many drivers ask, “How do I dispute a speeding ticket in a CMV?”
That’s a great question—and one we help answer for commercial drivers daily. A commercial vehicle speeding ticket in Stanislaus County, CA, could mean more than just a fine. It could put your driving position and future pay and benefits at risk.
Why Speeding in a CMV Is More Serious
Commercial drivers must follow different rules than other motorists.
Under the CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22406, most CMVs must obey the statewide commercial vehicle 55 mph speed limit—even on highways like I-5, where non-commercial drivers can legally go faster.
Many out-of-state drivers, as well as newer CDL holders, aren’t aware of how differently California treats commercial drivers. But ignorance won’t stop a ticket from affecting your CDL.
Penalties Beyond the Fine
A speeding ticket in a commercial motor vehicle can be expensive in more ways than one.
Fines range from $367 to $800. But that’s only the start.
When you pay the fine, you plead guilty. The DMV will assign 1.5 NOTS (Negligent Operator Treatment System) points on your motor vehicle driving record (MVR).
If you accumulate too many, you risk having your driver’s license suspended and possibly losing your ability to drive commercially in California. Always consult a traffic attorney about a suspension order.
There are several remedies, including DMV NOT hearing for more points and a restricted driver’s license to keep you on the road.
Here’s the breakdown:
4 points in 12 months
6 points in 24 months
8 points in 36 months
You must request a DMV NOTS hearing immediately to protect your CDL. The DMV could authorize more NOTS points if the majority of points were accumulated in your personal vehicle.
NOTE: As of June 10, 2025, the DMV will accept online renewal of your Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs). Click the “Start CDL Renewal” button.
What Happens After a CMV Speeding Violation?
Once the DMV records your conviction, they may notify the DOT FMCSA.
That means CSA severity points on your record, which remain on your PSP (Pre-employment Screening Program) for three years. These reports are accessible by future employers who must check your PSP before hiring you.
Fleet operators also suffer. Their Safety Measurement System (SMS) percentile rises, and with it, their fleet insurance premiums. If you want to stay employable, disputing that ticket is crucial.
Dispute a Speeding Ticket in a CMV With Legal Help
So, how do you dispute a speeding ticket in a CMV?
A local CDL defense attorney can often negotiate a reduced charge—or even dismissal—without you showing up in court.
We regularly represent commercial drivers with speeding tickets in a CMV in Modesto Courthouse.
Many judges understand the pressures of long-haul trucking. An experienced attorney can present your case professionally and fight for the best outcome.
Ask One of Bigger & Harman’s Stanislaus County Speeding Ticket Attorneys
Hiring a local speeding ticket lawyer is one of the smartest decisions a CDL holder can make.
At Bigger & Harman, we know how to dispute a speeding ticket in a CMV in Stanislaus County, CA. We’ve helped hundreds of CDL holders across California reduce or eliminate charges that could’ve cost them their careers.
Let us help you protect your CDL and keep your record clean. A clean PSP can significantly improve your negotiating power for pay and benefits.
We’ll appear in the Modesto Courthouse for you, so you won’t have to turn down a load.
Contact Bigger & Harman today to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our experienced traffic attorneys.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
Call Bigger & Harman About a Speeding Ticket in a CMV in Modesto Courthouse
If you need to dispute a speeding ticket in a CMV in Modesto Courthouse, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
Set up a free consultation with one of our Stanislaus County traffic attorneys using our handy contact form or email us today at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Let us know if you need help today. We’re here to keep your CDL—and your future—safe and secure.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: Can I dispute a speeding ticket in a CMV in Stanislaus County without going to court?
A: Yes, hiring a commercial speeding ticket lawyer will allow you to keep driving while they represent you in court. This convenience could save you time and travel, plus prevent the possibility of self-incrimination.
Q: What are the consequences of paying a CMV speeding ticket?
A: Paying the fine is a guilty plea. It leads to DMV points, FMCSA penalties, and could lead to termination from your driving position, especially when your CSA points cause a rise in your employer’s fleet insurance.
Q: Where is my CMV speeding ticket handled in Stanislaus County?
A: Most traffic tickets issued on I-5 in Stanislaus County are processed at the Modesto Courthouse. The court reminder should include instructions about which courthouse will handle your ticket.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.