Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) / Wisconsin
2026 data Wisconsin board official source

Wisconsin Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Operates large commercial vehicles. Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

What the Wisconsin data shows for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL)s

Wisconsin sets the entry bar for commercial truck driver (cdl)s at 212 training hours and a passing score on CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 21 or older. The credential is administered under Wisconsin's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "CDL Training Program".

Upfront cost is $78, with renewal running $46 on a 4-year cycle. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in Wisconsin, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states.

Licensing Requirements in Wisconsin

Education / Training Hours
CDL Training Program
212 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$78
Renewal Fee
$46
Renewal Cycle
Every 4 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
21 years

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Compare all states for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) All Wisconsin licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Wisconsin licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in Wisconsin? ▼
Wisconsin's requirements cover 212 hours of education or training, the CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test exam, and an initial fee of $78. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in Wisconsin? ▼
Certification as a commercial truck driver (cdl) in Wisconsin means clearing the state's checklist: 212 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Wisconsin licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) license to Wisconsin from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for commercial truck driver (cdl)s: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Wisconsin licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Wisconsin require a background check for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) licensing? ▼
Yes, Wisconsin requires a criminal background check as part of the commercial truck driver (cdl) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.