WIWisconsin CDL permit test guide
The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.
- Licensing agency
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles
- Official CDL page
- wisconsindot.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- wisconsindot.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- wisconsindot.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
Wisconsin posts the CDL manual in English and Spanish. Its CDL page says the Hazardous Materials and School Bus knowledge tests are offered only in English.
- Source collection date
Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)
- Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
- Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
- Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
- Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
- Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.
What is different in this state
- Test languages
Wisconsin posts the CDL manual in English and Spanish. Its CDL page says the Hazardous Materials and School Bus knowledge tests are offered only in English.
- Knowledge tests
A passing grade on Wisconsin CDL knowledge tests is 80% or more correct answers.
- Learner permit (CLP)
A Wisconsin CLP is valid for 180 days and may be renewed; you must hold it 14 days before the road test.
- Also important
Pre-trip, backing and road tests are scheduled with an approved third-party tester. School bus drivers must pass knowledge and skills tests at first issue and at every renewal, plus a background check.
Where this state's manual differs
- 5.1.11 The low air pressure warning must come on before tank pressure falls below 60 psi (2017 national text: 55 psi).
- 5.2 Dual air systems: the warning must come on before either system drops below 60 psi (2017 national text: 55 psi).
- 5.3.3 Air brake check: the warning should come on before pressure drops below 60 psi (2017 national text: 55 psi).
State-only topics in the manual
- Wisconsin information: who needs a CDL in Wisconsin, license requirements, federal medical rules and DMV/State Patrol contacts.
- Farm Bus (F) endorsement covered in a separate Farm Service Manual.
Source collection date:
The three permit tests
General Knowledge
Required for every CDL class.
Mock examAir Brakes
Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.
Mock examCombination Vehicles
Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).
Mock exam7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.