Common Wisconsin CDL Disqualifications Must Be Known

If you’re planning to get a CDL in Wisconsin, it’s crucial to understand the disqualifications that could prevent you from obtaining or retaining your license. Wisconsin CDL disqualifications can result from serious offenses like DUIs, reckless driving, or drug-related violations, which can significantly impact your career. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common reasons for CDL disqualification in Wisconsin, how long these disqualifications last, and what you can do to avoid them. Whether you’re applying for your CDL or aiming to maintain it, understanding these rules is key to staying on the road.

What are the Wisconsin CDL disqualifications?

Wisconsin CDL Disqualifications

A CDL disqualification in Wisconsin means your privilege to operate a commercial motor vehicle is withdrawn due to certain violations or offenses. These rules are enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and align with both state statutes and federal safety regulations to ensure public safety. The disqualification periods depend on the severity of the offense committed.

1. OWI/DUI and alcohol-related disqualifications

OWI/DUI and alcohol-related disqualifications

A conviction for Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) can lead to significant consequences for commercial drivers. Disqualifications include:

• First OWI/DUI offense (Non-commercial vehicle): 1-year disqualification from holding a CDL.
• First OWI/DUI offense (Commercial vehicle): 1-year disqualification from holding a CDL. However, if you were hauling hazardous materials, the disqualification extends to 3 years.
• Second OWI/DUI offense: Lifetime disqualification from obtaining or retaining a CDL.
• Refusal to take a chemical test (Breath, blood, or urine): If you refuse to submit to testing or have a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) over the commercial limit of 0.04%, you can face a 1-year disqualification for the first refusal, or potentially a lifetime ban for repeated offenses.

Commercial drivers are held to stricter alcohol standards than non-commercial drivers, and a DUI conviction in a personal vehicle (not just a commercial one) can also result in a CDL disqualification under Wisconsin state law.

2. Serious traffic violations and pattern offenses

Serious traffic violations and pattern offenses

Certain serious moving violations or repeated traffic offenses can lead to disqualification if they occur within a set timeframe:

• Reckless driving or negligent operation of a commercial vehicle may result in a temporary disqualification, particularly if these violations are repeated.
• Multiple serious traffic violations within three years can lead to:
  • 60-day CDL suspension for two violations.
  • 120-day suspension for three violations.

Even violations in a personal vehicle (not a commercial vehicle) can count toward disqualification periods if they meet the serious violation criteria. 

3. Drug offenses and controlled substances

Drug offenses and controlled substances

Driving under the influence of controlled substances or having a felony conviction related to drugs can result in the following disqualification periods:

• First offense (Drug-related conviction): 1-year disqualification from holding a CDL.
• Multiple convictions for drug offenses can lead to a lifetime CDL disqualification, especially if the conviction involves a felony or a controlled substance. 

Commercial drivers are prohibited from operating a commercial vehicle while under the influence of any illicit substances, and the penalties for violations are severe.

4. Other disqualifying offenses

There are additional offenses that can lead to Wisconsin CDL disqualifications, including:

• Failure to stop and report an accident: If you’re involved in an accident and fail to stop or report it, you could face disqualification for a certain period, depending on the situation.
• Refusal to undergo sobriety testing: If you refuse sobriety tests, such as a breathalyzer, you may face a 1-year disqualification.
• Felony convictions involving a commercial vehicle: Being convicted of a felony related to commercial vehicle operation can result in a lifetime disqualification.

Additionally, if you are already disqualified, suspended, or revoked and continue to operate a commercial motor vehicle, the penalty can result in longer disqualification periods, and in some cases, lifetime disqualification.

FAQs

1. Who is exempt from CDL licensing in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, the following drivers are exempt from needing a CDL:

• Firefighters and rescue squad members are driving emergency vehicles.
• Recreational vehicle operators (motorhomes, trailers under 45 feet) not used for commercial purposes.
• Farmers and farm workers driving vehicles for farm-related purposes within 150 miles of the farm (with some conditions).
• Back-up snowplow drivers for local governments with populations under 3,000.

These exemptions apply under specific conditions, and drivers should verify their eligibility if they fall into these categories.

2. Can you get a CDL with a DUI in Wisconsin?

Yes, it is possible to get a CDL with a DUI conviction in Wisconsin, but the process depends on the severity of the offense:

• First DUI offense (non-commercial vehicle): You may still be eligible for a CDL, but you will face a 1-year disqualification if convicted.
• First DUI offense (commercial vehicle): The disqualification extends to 1 year and may increase to 3 years if hazardous materials were involved.
• Second DUI offense: This leads to a lifetime disqualification from obtaining or retaining a CDL in Wisconsin.
• Refusal to take a chemical test: A refusal results in a 1-year disqualification for the first offense and may escalate to lifetime disqualification for subsequent offenses.

Conclusion

Understanding Wisconsin CDL disqualifications is essential for anyone applying for or maintaining a CDL in the state. If you’ve been disqualified, it’s important to understand the specific rules and penalties that apply to your situation and know the steps to reinstate your CDL. By staying informed and compliant with Wisconsin’s CDL requirements and regulations, you can continue your career in the commercial driving industry with confidence.