I believe you can get a NY CDL with a prior alcohol related conviction. The way to find out is to call DMV Albany counsel office and ask or, just go to DMV and apply.

CDL, or Commercial Driver's License, has the same rules in every state. Namely, a first DUI gets you a 1 year suspension of your CDL, and second DUI means you lose your CDL FOR LIFE!! Since you already have 2 DUIs you would be prohibited from getting a CDL regardless of the fact that you no longer drink and regardless of the fact that it's been 8 years.

My answer is no, however, I am not licensed in New York. Therefore, I would verify this with an experienced criminal defense or licensing attorney licensed in New York. I say no because this is so in CA, where I am licensed, and I would expect the same standard to apply nationwide due to the interstate nature of a CDL. Good luck to you, sir.