How to Get CDL in Wisconsin: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve been asking yourself, “How to get a CDL in Wisconsin?“, you’re about to discover everything you need to know to make that dream a reality. Earning your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is the key to unlocking countless job opportunities in the trucking and transportation industry. Whether you’re hoping to drive locally or across the country, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the exact steps to get your CDL in Wisconsin. From meeting the state’s requirements to acing your driving test, we’ve got you covered with all the details you need to succeed.

Wisconsin CDL requirements

Wisconsin CDL requirements

To obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Wisconsin, you must meet several state and federal requirements. These criteria ensure that drivers are safe, qualified, and legally allowed to operate commercial vehicles. Below are the specific requirements for getting a CDL in Wisconsin:

Age & residency

• Minimum Age:
  • You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a CDL that allows you to drive intrastate (within Wisconsin only).
  • If you want to drive interstate (across state lines), you need to be 21 years old or older. This applies to driving across state lines outside Wisconsin.
• Residency:
  You must be a legal resident of Wisconsin. Proof of residency in Wisconsin will be required to apply for a CDL.

Medical and physical fitness

Medical and physical fitness

All CDL applicants must pass a medical exam conducted by a certified medical examiner. The examiner will issue a Federal Medical Examination Certificate (Fed Med Card) if you pass the medical examination. These medical standards align with federal safety regulations (49 CFR Part 391). If you have specific health issues, you may need to submit additional medical documentation for approval.

Valid regular driver’s license

Before applying for your CDL or a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), you must present a valid Wisconsin driver’s license as part of the application process.

• This license must be current and in good standing (not suspended, revoked, or expired).
• Most applicants will use a Class D driver’s license (standard non‑commercial license) as their existing license when applying.

This proof of license helps verify your identity and driving record as required by the Wisconsin DMV.

Knowledge and skills testing

Knowledge and skills testing

Every CDL applicant must pass:

• General knowledge test: You can prepare for this test by studying the Wisconsin CDL Manual available on the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) website.
• Skills test: This test consists of 3 main parts:
  1. Pre-trip vehicle inspection
  2. Basic control skills
  3. On-road driving test

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) requirements

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) requirements

Before taking the skills test, you must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) by:

• Passing the written knowledge tests and meeting medical requirements.
• Submit valid identification documents.
• Holding the CLP for a minimum of 14 days before scheduling your skills test.

The CLP allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder.

Waivers and special cases

In Wisconsin, there are waivers for certain CDL requirements in special cases:

• Firefighters and emergency responders may be exempt from certain CDL requirements when driving emergency vehicles.
• Farmers may be exempt from some CDL requirements when driving commercial vehicles for agricultural purposes, although certain restrictions apply, such as the type of cargo or operating area.

Endorsements & restrictions

Endorsements & restrictions

Some commercial vehicles and specific cargo types require additional endorsements and tests:

• Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement: If you plan to drive vehicles that carry hazardous materials, you will need to pass a HazMat test and undergo a background check and fingerprinting.
• Passenger Endorsement: If you intend to drive passenger vehicles like buses, you will need to pass a test and earn this endorsement.
• Tanker Endorsement: If you drive vehicles that transport liquids or gases in bulk, you need a tanker endorsement.

These endorsements require additional written and skills tests specific to the type of vehicle or cargo.

How to get a CDL in Wisconsin?

Getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Wisconsin can seem overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into clear steps makes the process manageable. Below is a detailed, step‑by‑step guide so you know exactly what to expect at each stage of your CDL journey.

1. Study with the Commercial Driver’s Manual

Study with the Commercial Driver’s Manual

Before you do anything else, begin by studying the Wisconsin Commercial Driver’s Manual. This handbook explains the rules, laws, and safety guidelines for operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). Remember to focus on general knowledge, air brakes (if applicable), and combination vehicle sections.

Use Wisconsin CDL practice tests to build confidence before the real exams. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare because knowledge tests can take 1–1½ hours and require a passing score of at least 80%.

2. Pass the Wisconsin CDL knowledge tests

Once you’ve studied the manual:

• Take the General Knowledge Test.
• Depending on the type of CDL you want (Class A, B, or C), you may also need additional written tests:
  • Combination Vehicles (for Class A)
  • Air Brakes
  • Endorsement tests for HazMat, passenger, tanker, school bus, double/triple trailers, etc.

When you pass the required tests, you’ll be eligible to apply for your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

3. Apply for Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Apply for Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

After passing the knowledge tests:

1. Visit your local Wisconsin DMV service center.
2. Complete the CDL application forms.
3. Provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the U.S.
4. Present a valid Federal Medical Card (Fed Med Card) showing you’ve passed a DOT physical exam.
5. Pay the required permit fees.

4. Complete Entry‑Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Complete Entry‑Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Federal regulations require most new Wisconsin CDL applicants to complete Entry‑Level Driver Training (ELDT) before they can take their CDL skills test. ELDT includes both theory instruction and behind‑the‑wheel training. Training providers are listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

Note: ELDT may be exempted in limited cases (for example, military training or certain agricultural exemptions), but most first‑time CDL applicants must complete it.

5. Schedule and pass the CDL skills test

After holding your CLP for at least 14 days and completing any required ELDT, you can schedule your CDL skills test. This is the final hurdle before getting your full CDL and includes three parts:

1. Pre‑trip Vehicle Inspection
2. Basic Control Skills
3. On‑Road Driving Test

6. Convert CLP to a full Wisconsin CDL

Convert CLP to a full Wisconsin CDL

Once you successfully pass all parts of the CDL skills test:

• Return to the DMV with your test results, current CLP, and Fed Med Card.
• Complete final paperwork and pay any applicable license issuance fees.
• Your new Wisconsin CDL will be added to your driver record and, in many cases, issued on the same day.

7. Add Endorsements (If needed)

Add Endorsements (If needed)

If you plan to drive specialized commercial vehicles or carry special cargo, you may also need endorsements such as:

• Hazardous Materials (HazMat)
• Passenger (P)
• School Bus (S)
• Tanker (N)

Each endorsement has its own written and sometimes practical testing requirements.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to get your CDL in Wisconsin?

The total cost to get your CDL in Wisconsin can range from $3,000 to $7,000 if you choose to attend a formal CDL school, which typically covers tuition, training, and testing fees. For those who only pay state fees, the basic costs are:

• Knowledge Test Fee: ~$10
• CDL Permit Fee: ~$30
• CDL Skills Test Fee: ~$50–$75
• CDL License Fee: ~$40–$70
• Endorsement Fees (e.g., HazMat, school bus): ~$10–$67 per endorsement
• DOT Medical Exam Fee: ~$80–$150

These state fees can total between $100 and $300, but CDL training schools will increase the total cost, ranging from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the school and location. 

For detailed information on the cost of getting a CDL in Wisconsin, check out the article: “How much does it cost to get a CDL in Wisconsin?”

2. How long does it take to get your CDL in Wisconsin?

For someone starting from scratch, the process typically takes 3–4 months. This includes the time to study, pass the written knowledge test, hold the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for 14 days, and schedule the skills test. If you attend a CDL school, it may take a bit longer, around 4–6 months, due to training and scheduling. 

Wondering how long it takes to get your own CDL in Wisconsin? Find all the details in our article: “How long does it take to get CDL in Wisconsin?”

3. How can I get my CDL without going to school?

You can obtain your CDL without attending a formal school by self-studying the Wisconsin CDL manual, scheduling, and passing all required tests independently. However, this requires more self‑discipline and practice compared to attending a CDL school.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to get a CDL in Wisconsin, it’s clear that with the right preparation and dedication, you can successfully navigate the process. Whether you choose to study independently or attend a CDL school, the key steps include passing the written knowledge test, holding your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days, and acing the skills test. With your CDL in hand, you’ll be ready to pursue exciting career opportunities in commercial driving across Wisconsin and beyond. Start your journey today and take the first step toward securing your future as a professional driver!