​When you apply for a CDL class or endorsement, there may be paperwork requirements, medical requirements and testing requirements to complete before they can be added to your license. This page gives you the guidelines to help you understand what these requirements are. If you have access to a smart phone or computer, you can use our interactive driver’s license guide to get a list of requirements specific to your situation (see section below). We encourage you to read through the information on this page for the steps you’ll need to take to add CDL classes and/or endorsements to your license.

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements

Beginning February 7, 2022, the following applicants are required to successfully complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) prior to being eligible for CDL skills testing. Entry Level Driver Training includes theory and behind-the-wheel (BTW) instruction at a training provider/training entity listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Training Provider Registry.

• Drivers applying for their first CDL
  
• Drivers applying for Class Upgrades (Class B to Class A)
• Drivers adding Hazardous Materials Endorsement (H)
• Drivers adding Passenger Endorsement (P)
• Drivers adding School Bus Endorsement (S)
  

What is an Entry Level Driver Training Provider and where can I find one?

Training providers include, but are not limited to, training schools, educational institutions, rural electric cooperatives, motor carriers, State/local governments, school districts, joint labor management programs, owner-operators and individuals. Most employers who train their own employees will be part of the program. Please check with your employer or contact a registered training provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov.​​

How to get a customized list of the requirements you will need to get any class and/or endorsement

The interactive driver licensing guide is a helpful tool for those looking for information on commercial driving requirements. The guide will provide you with a checklist of requirements, and allow you to pre-fill any required application(s) before visiting a DMV Customer Service Center. Depending on your eligibility, you may also be able to use the guide to electronically submit your application(s) and schedule an appointment with the DMV for expedited service.

Information on how to obtain a CDL

• CDL disqualifications - general CDL, Hazmat and school bus disqualifications​
  
• CDL overview​ - defines the CDL classes (A, B and C) and lists the paperwork requirements for becoming a CDL driver
• Endorsements - defines all endorsements: F, H, N, P, S and T
• Step-by-step guide on applying for a CDL - includes sections of the CDL Manual to study for each class/endorsement
• Military test waiver programs - includes information on the skills test waiver program and the Even Exchange program
• Practice knowledge test application - practice CDL general knowledge tests (for B & C) is available with this app
• CDL basic control and skills tests - explains how the inspection and skills tests are done and outlines the fees involved
• CDL examiners (3rd party) by county - skills test examiner contact information and testing fees
• Driver licensing fees - fees are listed for adding any class(es) and/or endorsement(s) to a license​
• FMCSA regulatory updates - including information about Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) and Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

Tier of operation & CDL medical requirements

• CDL medical requirements - includes basic FMCSA information including a link to find a certified Fed Med examiner
• Fed Med Card
• FMCSA - National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners​ - use this to find a certified Fed Med examiner near you
• Tiers of Operation - explains what the tiers of operation are and links to the Tier of Operation form (MV3230)

Wisconsin CDL manuals

• Wisconsin Commercial Driver's Manual
• Wisconsin Commercial Driver's Manual (en español)

General CDL Information

• CDL Information - check here for a listing of other CDL topics (links to more Hazmat and School Bus info is on this page)

Online services

• Commercial driver license guide - use this interactive tool to find out what you need to do to get any CDL class or endorsement
• Check the status of your license - use this tool to check the current status, expiration date, tier level, Fed Med info, physical & testing requirements (if you are a school bus driver)