Ohio OVI Defense
OVI with a CDL in Ohio — Your Livelihood Is on the Line
Commercial drivers face a BAC limit of just 0.04% — half the standard limit — and a first OVI conviction results in a mandatory 1-year CDL disqualification. A second conviction means lifetime CDL disqualification. For professional drivers, an OVI is not just a legal problem — it is a career-ending event without aggressive defense.
0.04% (vs. 0.08% standard)
CDL BAC Limit
1 year minimum
1st Offense CDL Disqualification
Lifetime
2nd Offense CDL Disqualification
3 years (1st offense)
Hazmat Disqualification
Time is critical. Ohio's Administrative License Suspension (ALS) challenge window is only 30 days from your arrest date. Contact Rutan Law immediately to protect your driving privileges.
How Rutan Law Defends Your Case
Every OVI case is different. We identify the strongest defenses available and pursue them aggressively from day one.
Fight the Underlying OVI Charge
The best way to protect your CDL is to defeat the OVI charge entirely. Every defense available in a standard OVI applies here — and the stakes demand we pursue every one.
Challenge the BAC Test
At 0.04%, even minor testing errors can produce a false positive. We scrutinize calibration records, operator certification, and testing procedures.
Negotiate a Non-OVI Disposition
A reduction to reckless operation or another non-OVI charge can preserve your CDL. We negotiate aggressively with prosecutors.
FMCSA Hearing Representation
We represent CDL holders in Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration proceedings and Ohio BMV hearings to protect your commercial driving privileges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often about this charge.
Ready to Fight Your Charge?
Your CDL and career are at stake. Call Rutan Law at (614) 307-4343 — available 24/7.