Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements in Wisconsin

1. What are the CDL requirements for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Wisconsin?


In order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Wisconsin, the applicant must be at least 18 years of age, have a valid Wisconsin driver’s license, pass a vision exam and a knowledge test on general commercial driving rules and regulations, and pass a skills test in the type of vehicle they intend to operate. Applicants must also provide proof of residency, proof of identity, and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency. Additionally, all applicants must pass a medical exam and provide proof of completion of a federally approved driver’s education course.

2. How many years of driving experience do I need to obtain a CDL in Wisconsin?


In Wisconsin, you must have at least two years of verifiable driving experience with a regular (Class D) driver’s license to be eligible for a CDL.

3. What type of medical certification is required to get a CDL in Wisconsin?


In Wisconsin, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) requires a valid medical certification card. The card must be obtained from a medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry.

4. Does Wisconsin use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for CDLs?


Yes, Wisconsin follows the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) guidelines for Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs).

5. Are there any special endorsements required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in Wisconsin?


Yes, there are special endorsements required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in Wisconsin. These endorsements include: hazardous materials, passenger, school bus, and tank vehicle endorsements.

6. How often must CDL holders in Wisconsin pass a physical examination to maintain their license?


CDL holders in Wisconsin must pass a physical examination every 2 years in order to maintain their license.

7. What are the age requirements for obtaining a CDL in Wisconsin?


In Wisconsin, you must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a CDL. If you are under 21, you will be restricted to intrastate commerce (driving only in Wisconsin).

8. Are there any skill exams required to get a CDL in Wisconsin?


Yes, the state of Wisconsin requires that all drivers applying for a CDL must pass a skills test in order to be issued a license. The test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.

9. Does Wisconsin require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL?


Yes. Wisconsin requires drivers to complete additional training and pass a skills test before obtaining a CDL.

10. Can I obtain a CDL if I have previous convictions for traffic violations in Wisconsin?


Yes, you may be able to obtain a CDL in Wisconsin if you have previous convictions for certain traffic violations. However, some violations may prevent you from obtaining a CDL. Check with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for specific details.

11. What hours are Commercial Drivers allowed to drive in Wisconsin?


In Wisconsin, commercial drivers may drive up to 11 hours in a 14-hour period, and must take a 10-hour break after each 14-hour period. They may not drive after having been on duty for more than 14 hours, and must take at least 10 consecutive hours off after reaching the 14-hour limit.

12. Are there any restrictions on CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles in Wisconsin?


Yes, Wisconsin imposes restrictions on CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles. For example, bus drivers must be 21 years of age or older, and all drivers must pass a knowledge and skills test prior to operating a bus. Drivers must also meet specific qualifications and have the appropriate endorsements in order to operate vehicles that carry hazardous materials, such as tanks or tankers. In addition, CDL holders operating any vehicle with air brakes must pass a knowledge and skills test for the proper operation of air brakes.

13. Do I need to take any additional classes to obtain a CDL in Wisconsin?


Yes, all drivers in Wisconsin must complete a Basic Skills Course to obtain a CDL. This course must be taken prior to applying for a CDL.

14. Does Wisconsin require drivers to carry proof of insurance when operating commercial vehicles?


Yes, Wisconsin requires all drivers operating commercial vehicles to carry proof of liability insurance.

15. Is there an age limit for holding a Commercial Drivers License in Wisconsin?


Yes, the minimum age for a Commercial Driver License (CDL) in Wisconsin is 18 years old.

16. Are there any special requirements for drivers transporting hazardous materials with a Commercial Drivers License in Wisconsin?


Yes. In Wisconsin, commercial drivers who are transporting hazardous materials or waste must have a valid hazardous materials endorsement to accompany their Commercial Drivers License. In addition, they must comply with all regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

17. Do I need to take a drug test before obtaining a CDL in Wisconsin?


Yes. You must take a drug test before obtaining a CDL in Wisconsin. Additionally, all commercial drivers must also be tested for controlled substances and/or alcohol within 24 hours of having an accident involving a commercial motor vehicle, or if there is reasonable suspicion that the driver is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

18. Does Wisconsin require drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle?


Yes, Wisconsin requires drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle. The specific license type required depends on the type and size of the vehicle.

19. How often must Commercial Drivers renew their license in Wisconsin?


Commercial drivers in Wisconsin must renew their license every 8 years.

20. Are there any special restrictions on Commercial Drivers operating at night or during certain times of day in Wisconsin?


Yes, Commercial Drivers in Wisconsin must adhere to the Federal Hours of Service rules. These rules limit the number of hours a driver can be on duty, driving, and resting. Additionally, drivers must take a break after 8 consecutive hours of driving and cannot drive after 14 consecutive hours of duty. There are also restrictions on the number of hours drivers can work in a 7 or 8 day period.