Finding trucking companies that hire with reckless driving on your record can feel impossible. You’ve made mistakes, learned from them, and just want a chance to get back behind the wheel — but most big carriers seem to shut their doors.
Here’s the good news: some trucking companies are willing to hire drivers with reckless driving violations if you’ve shown responsibility, rehabilitation, and a clean record since the incident.
In this article, we’ll walk you through which carriers still hire drivers with reckless driving, what they look for in applicants, and how to rebuild your CDL career step by step.
Read too: Top Trucking Companies That Still Have Manual Transmissions
Understanding Reckless Driving and Its Impact on CDL Jobs
Before we list hiring companies, let’s clarify what “reckless driving” really means.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), reckless driving is any action showing “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” Examples include:
- Speeding 15 mph or more above the limit
- Tailgating or unsafe lane changes
- Running red lights or ignoring traffic signs
- Street racing or aggressive driving
This is a serious violation that can stay on your CDL record for up to 3–5 years, depending on your state and employer’s hiring policy. (You can read more about CDL classifications and laws on Wikipedia.)
Trucking Companies That Hire With Reckless Driving
While many large carriers are strict, others provide second-chance opportunities to responsible drivers. Below is a comparison of companies known to hire or consider drivers with reckless driving violations after review.
💡 Tip: If your reckless driving ticket was non-alcohol-related and occurred over 2–3 years ago, you have a strong chance of being considered by second-chance carriers.
| Company Name | Hiring Policy | Minimum Time Since Violation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Express | Hires drivers with 1 reckless driving (case-by-case) | 12–36 months | Known for second-chance hiring |
| Carolina Cargo | Open to most violations | 12 months | Focuses on rehabilitation and training |
| CR England | May hire if violation is 3+ years old | 36 months | Strong mentorship programs |
| TransAm Trucking | Accepts reckless if over 3 years old | 36 months | Offers paid training |
| CRST Expedited | Case-by-case review | 24 months | Great for drivers rebuilding career |
| Roehl Transport | Rare exceptions for old violations | 48 months | Must complete safety retraining |
| USA Truck | Reviews based on driver improvement | 36 months | Encourages defensive driving courses |
How Long Does Reckless Driving Stay on Your CDL Record?
Reckless driving typically remains on your MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) for 3–5 years, but the real impact depends on:
- Severity: Was it a misdemeanor or felony?
- State laws: Some states purge older violations after 3 years.
- Carrier policy: Each company sets its own “look-back period” (often 36 months).
For example:
- A minor reckless charge (speeding) may be overlooked after 24 months.
- A serious reckless charge (racing, injury) may require 5+ years of clean driving before hire.
How To Get Hired With a Reckless Driving Record
Even with a reckless driving violation, you can still land a trucking job — but it takes preparation and transparency. Here’s how to increase your chances:
1. Be 100% Honest During the Application
Recruiters will check your DAC and MVR reports. Lying or omitting details can instantly disqualify you.
2. Take a Defensive Driving or Safety Certification Course
Completing an approved Defensive Driving Program (like Smith System or NSC) demonstrates responsibility and commitment to safe driving.
3. Keep a Clean Record Post-Violation
Most companies require at least 12–36 months of clean driving since your last reckless incident. Avoid any additional violations.
4. Prepare a Clear Explanation
Recruiters respect honesty. Here’s a simple framework:
“I made a mistake three years ago with a reckless driving citation. Since then, I’ve completed a defensive driving course, stayed accident-free, and focus on safety every day.”
5. Target Second-Chance Trucking Companies
Certain carriers openly support drivers who are rebuilding. Let’s explore a few below.
Top Second-Chance CDL Companies in 2025
These second-chance carriers are known for giving drivers another opportunity after reckless driving violations:
1. Western Express
- Accepts up to 1 major violation in 3 years
- Focuses on retraining and mentorship
- Offers regional and OTR routes
2. Carolina Cargo
- Well-known for giving second chances
- Minimal restrictions on past violations
- Ideal for drivers needing experience recovery
3. CRST Expedited
- Reviews reckless driving on a case-by-case basis
- Offers safety coaching and retraining
- Great company for rebuilding long-term CDL careers
4. TransAm Trucking
- Considers drivers with older reckless records (3+ years)
- Offers free orientation and solid pay structure
Reckless Driving vs. Careless Driving: What’s the Difference?
Many drivers confuse these two — but employers treat them very differently.
| Category | Definition | Impact on Hiring |
|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving | Deliberate disregard for safety | Major violation – affects CDL job eligibility |
| Careless Driving | Simple negligence, not willful | Minor violation – easier to overlook |
| Negligent Operation | Intermediate between the two | Reviewed case-by-case by carriers |
✅ Pro Tip: If your violation was originally charged as “reckless,” you can sometimes plea down to careless driving through legal counsel — reducing long-term impact.
How to Rebuild Trust With Employers After a Reckless Driving Charge
Trucking companies value responsibility and consistency. Here’s how to rebuild your professional reputation:
- Show Evidence of Growth: Present defensive driving certificates or clean inspection records.
- Gather References: Former dispatchers or supervisors can confirm your professionalism.
- Stay Educated: Attend safety seminars or CDL refresher courses.
- Apply Strategically: Focus on smaller or regional carriers more open to case-by-case evaluations.
- Maintain a Positive Attitude: A willingness to learn and improve matters more than a perfect record.
Can You Get Your Reckless Driving Record Expunged?
In some states, you can petition for expungement or record sealing after a set time period — usually 3–7 years. However:
- Eligibility depends on the state and severity of the violation.
- Expungement may not remove it from your FMCSA record, but it helps with employer background checks.
Consult a CDL attorney for guidance on your state’s specific expungement process.
FAQ – Trucking Companies That Hire With Reckless Driving
1. Can I get hired as a truck driver with a reckless driving charge?
Yes, but it depends on the company and how long ago it occurred. Many carriers require 2–3 years since the incident with a clean record afterward.
2. Which trucking companies are most lenient with reckless driving?
Companies like Western Express, Carolina Cargo, and CRST Expedited are known for giving second chances.
3. How long does reckless driving stay on a CDL?
Usually 3–5 years, but some states may remove it after 3 years if you maintain a clean driving record.
4. Can a reckless driving charge be reduced?
Yes. In some cases, lawyers can negotiate a reckless charge down to careless driving, which improves your hiring chances.
5. What’s the best way to explain reckless driving in an interview?
Be transparent, take responsibility, and highlight your growth since the incident — companies respect honesty.
6. Do all trucking companies run DAC reports?
Most large carriers do, but smaller regional companies may not, making them a good place to start rebuilding.
Conclusion
Having a reckless driving charge on your record doesn’t mean your trucking career is over. Many trucking companies that hire with reckless driving believe in second chances and are willing to help drivers rebuild through mentorship and retraining.
By being transparent, improving your safety record, and targeting the right companies, you can get back on the road and restart your CDL career confidently.
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