BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S PERMIT/LICENSE

To be eligible for a driver's license in the state of Wisconsin, you need to meet the following requirements:

• You must meet the requirements for a Wisconsin Driver's license.
• To drive inside and outside of Wisconsin (interstate), you must be at least 21 years of age and should be in possession of a license for at least one year.
• Be at least 18 years old to drive within Wisconsin state.
• Provide your Social Security number.
• You must pass the driving, written knowledge tests, and the eye exam.
• Must meet all the medical requirements.
• Certify that you are in agreement with state motor carrier safety regulations. See Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

STEPS TO APPLY FOR A CDL PERMIT/LICENSE

1. You must meet the requirements for a Wisconsin Driver's license.
2. Fill out the CDL application form hand in in-person to a DMV office.
3. Pass the CDL knowledge exams. See the CDL Manual for the required information. The exam can be taken at any DMV location.
4. Pass vision screening test.
5. Attend and then provide proof that you have taken a Commercial driver's education program specifically for commercial motor vehicles.
6. Make an appointment at DMV Service Centers located throughout the state for a road test. Most CDL road tests are conducted by third party testers.
7. Pay license and endorsement fees.

FEES

A Wisconsin Commercial Driver's License will be valid for 8 years. Please see a list of fees for more information.

CDL ENDORSEMENTS

The following is a list of endorsements you can get on your CDL:

• Hazardous Material (Class H).
• Tank Vehicles (Class N).
• Passenger-Carrying Vehicle (Class P).
• School Bus (Class S).
• Towing a Double or Triple Trailer (Class T).

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (HAZMAT)

This is an endorsement required if you are driving a commercial motor vehicle that transports hazardous materials. There are specific background checks and knowledge exams that you need to pass in order to receive this endorsement on your CDL. Please see the HAZMAT endorsement article for more detailed information.

FEDERAL GUIDELINES FOR INTERSTATE DRIVERS

The following is a list of federal requirements for interstate drivers.

• Certify that you are in agreement with state motor carrier safety regulations. See Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
• Have the correct class of license. See Classes of CDLs, Restrictions and Endorsements for more details.
• See Wisconsin's Commercial Driver's Manual for more information on state regulations and guidelines.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• If you already have a CDL, see CDL renewal.
• For more information regarding test centers and hours and locations see you local DMV office.
• See Wisconsin's Commercial Driver's Manual for knowledge exam information.