I need advice

Yes. A very few highly selective companies may not hire you, but you are hirable by many companies since the age of that traffic conviction is beyond 5 years. Always be prepared to explain the traffic conviction because insurance companies have access to other databases and may know about it no matter how old it is. But your best explanation is "I was younger, I made a stupid mistake, I accept responsibility for that mistake and have learned how important it is to never make those mistakes or excuses for them. My record since that time proves I am more responsible today than when I was younger."

Don't think you cannot work in the industry. There are companies that will hire you and you may not even have to work at less desirable companies that hire almost anyone that applies.

 

That's really an irrelevant question. I mean, I understand the purpose of asking, but in the context of the initial post, it's rather judgmental. We all know that there really isn't a good answer for why. I don't think any of us here is in a position to pass any sort of judgment because this is a place to seek information and not be judged for past behavior.

Yes, the OP opened him/herself up by posting about it, but it doesn't mean that pointing out the obvious is the sound thing to do.

But, that is my opinion and only an opinion. Do what you will with it.

 

It's really not as bad as you think... BECAUSE of how old the ticket is. Look at the questions regarding tickets on the application. Most ask regarding the last 3 years. If that ticket resulted in a suspended license, that becomes a bit more problematic because every application for a driving position that falls under FMCSA purview asks if you have ever had your license suspended or revoked. You then have to explain the ticket.

I said that the ticket isn't as bad as you think. Part of that is also because it happened before you had your CDL. Now you have a permit (halfway to your CDL), so any tickets you get at this point are much more detrimental.

I was able to get a class A OTR job with a 16-year old felony conviction and less than 2 years removed from completing parole. You will be able to get a job with a ticket some years old.

 

Not always the case, just normally.