​WisDOT authorizes third party testing companies and examiners to conduct CDL exams on behalf of the State of Wisconsin, and in compliance with the AAMVA 2005 testing model and Wisconsin Chapter Trans 115.

All third party examiners need to be employed by an approved CDL third party testing company. Detailed information regarding CDL third party company and examiner requirements are listed below, along with links to forms, online services and other helpful information.

Before submitting an application, please contact dotdmvcdlunit@dot.wi.gov for information on how to become a CDL third party testing company or examiner.

To become a CDL third party testing company

• Complete the Third Party Testing Company Application MV3547, Commercial Driver License Third Party Testing Company Agreement MV3549, Commercial Driver License Third Party Tester Bond MV3540 and provide proof of required insurance. All third party company testing locations and testing routes need to be approved by WisDOT before use.
• Send the forms and required fee to the address on the forms.

To become a CDL third party testing examiner

• Attend and successfully complete a two-week training course administered by Fox Valley Technical College. During this course you will be taught the essential skills and gain the knowledge needed to conduct a CDL examination in accordance with all applicable state rules and regulations.
• Be currently employed by an approved CDL third party testing company or apply to become an approved CDL third party testing company with WisDOT.
• Complete the Third Party Examiner Application MV3548.
• Send the form and required fee to the address on the form.

New examiner class schedule

Classes to become a CDL third party testing examiner are held at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, WI. Due to COVID-19, class schedules for 2021 have not been determined and will be subject to the availability and feasibility of administering an in-person class in a safe and practical manner. For further questions regarding classes, please contact the Wisconsin DMV CDL Audit team at dotdmvcdlunit@dot.wi.gov.

Annual recertification requirements

All CDL third party testing companies and CDL third party testing examiners are required to renew their WisDOT authorization certificate annually. Eligibility for renewal:

• The CDL third party testing company must have a satisfactory audit of the company records completed by a DMV CDL third party auditor.
• The CDL third party testing examiner must have a satisfactory CDL testing audit completed by a DMV CDL third party auditor.
• The CDL third party testing company must complete the Third Party Testing Company Application MV3547, Commercial Driver License Third Party Testing Company Agreement MV3549, Commercial Driver License Third Party Tester Bond MV3540 and provide proof of required insurance.

Once reviewed, certificates will be processed and renewed for another year. If the applications are incomplete or denied, the company and/or examiner will be unable to perform CDL testing.

Additional forms

• Non-Resident CDL Training Certification MV3309
• CDL Skills Test Tracking Summary MV3556
• CDL Tests Annual Log for Third Party Examiners MV3551
• Commercial Driver Testing Record MV3552
• CDL Third Party Testing Forms Request MV3661
• CDL Third Party Examiner-Company Complaint MV3567

WisDOT online services

• Check your driver license information - Check status, expiration date, operating restrictions, tier level, physical and testing requirements.
• Commercial driver license guide - Use this interactive guide to obtain more information about commercial driving requirements, required forms, and much more.
• Upload your Fed Med card or view your current tier of operation - All commercial drivers can use this tool to view their current Tier selection; Tier 1 drivers can also use this tool to upload a copy of their Fed Med card.
• eNotify: Go paperless - Receive renewal notices (license plate and driver license/ID) and other notifications by email.

Additional resources and publications

• Commercial Driver License (CDL) examiners by county
• Driver training schools - A listing of all schools currently offering instruction
• Commercial Driver License (CDL) information
• CDL Skill Test Guide (BDS TP1)
• Commercial Driver Vehicle Inspection - Basic Control and Skills Tests
• Tier of operation and Fed Med card information
• Chapter Trans 102 – Operator’s Licenses and Identification Cards
• Chapter Trans 104 – Examination Procedures for Operator’s License
• Chapter Trans 115 - Third Party Testing
• Wisconsin Statute Chapter 343 – Operator’s License
• Trans 300 changes video
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations Part 383 - Commercial Driver License Standards; Requirements and Penalties
• Commercial Skills Test Information Management System (CSTIMS)
• Wisconsin School Bus Association
• Roundabout informational video

​CDL Third Party Audit Program
PO Box 7920
Madison, WI 53707-7920

Email: dotdmvcdlunit@dot.wi.gov