How to obtain a Wisconsin CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit)
Getting Started . . .
Getting a Wisconsin CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit) involves several steps. There are medical requirements and residency
requirements besides knowledge and skills requirements.
- The first step is to get a free copy of the Wisconsin CDL Manual - WI CDL Handbook. The Wisconsin manual is available in the Wisconsin field
locations, downloaded from the Wisconsin website and printed. Wisconsin has
its own process to get your Wisconsin CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit).
- The second step is to decide which type of vehicle and what
kind of driving you want to get the CDL for.
- There are 3 classes of Wisconsin CDLs with endorsements
for specialized qualifications for vehicles like school buses, tank
trucks, tractor trailers, etc. Each type of Wisconsin CLP (Commercial Learner's Permit) and endorsement
requires you to pass written tests and in some cases a 3-part skills test in a representative type vehicle. It
is important to make sure you pass all the required tests or risk having
restrictions on your license.
Once you've finished getting informed and making decisions, there are two basic
steps to getting a Wisconsin CDL:
If you need help . . .
determining what Class of CDL you need based upon the type
of vehicle you will drive (A, B or C) or are not sure which CDL
Endorsements you need based upon the type of loads you will carry; use the
free CDL Selector Tool . . .
Wisconsin
Go to CDL Selector Tool
Not sure which WI CDL Tests you need to pass? Use this tool to determine what Class of CDL and which CDL Endorsements you require.
Step 1: Get the Wisconsin Commercial Learners Permit (WI CLP)
A
Wisconsin Commercial Learners Permit (WI CLP) is a permit that only authorizes you to practice on public
roads with a qualified Wisconsin CDL holder
sitting next to you. Getting the permit involves more than just passing
all the knowledge tests for the type of driving you want to do. To make
sure that you are eligible your driving record is checked for the last 10
years in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. You need to bring in
the proof that your state accepts to show that you are medically qualified.
Most types of commercial driving require a DOT medical card, requiring a
DOT physical. Your state may require specific documents it wants to see
to prove your name and proof of residency. There are fees for getting the
Wisconsin CLP. Reading and following the instructions
found in the specific
Wisconsin CDL Information will streamline the process.
Step 2: Get the Wisconsin Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
You are required to possess the Wisconsin CLP for 14 days before taking the Skills Test.
Some states require the successful completion of Wisconsin CDL training prior to
testing. Regardless, it is highly recommended that you practice the inspection
tests and maneuvers in the Wisconsin CDL Manual that you will be tested on with a
qualified individual before showing up for the test. You must pass all 3 parts
of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test,
and the Road Test. Your state may even allow you to use their "training aid"
to help you remember items on the vehicle inspection checklist. Taking the
Skills test is no guarantee that you will pass.
Once you have passed the Skills Test you need to take the documentation to the
counter for processing. Some states will give you the Wisconsin CDL that same day,
while others send it to you in the mail. Regardless make sure that everything
is correct before you leave the counter. It can be costly and embarrassing
if you find a mistake later.
Checklist . . .
- Possess current valid regular driver's license in Wisconsin.
- Show proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, payroll
check stub, W-2 Form).
- For interstate driving, submit proof of DOT Medical Certificate. For
intrastate driving, complete an application which includes a statement
certifying that you meet medical and driver qualifications. If you have
had any change in your physical condition since your last driver license
renewal which may affect your ability to drive, you may need a special
form from the branch office for your physician to fill out before you
can apply for your license.
- Meet driver record eligibility requirements as determined by your
Wisconsin DMV office personnel.
- Pass the required knowledge and vision tests. You must pass all required
knowledge tests to obtain a Wisconsin CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP).
This allows you to practice driving under supervision of a driver who
has a CDL for the type of vehicle you wish to drive. A Wisconsin CDL Temporary
Instruction Permit (TIP) is also required for taking the WI CDL skills
tests. If you do not pass a knowledge test on your first attempt, you
must wait one day to retake the test. There is a one-day wait period
for any subsequent retest.
- Pay your Wisconsin CDL fees.
- Schedule your Wisconsin CDL skills test.
- Upon successfully passing your Skills Tests, return to the Wisconsin DMV
office.
- Receive your Wisconsin CDL.
Are YOU ready to get YOUR Wisconsin CDL?
Prepare for YOUR Wisconsin CDL Tests NOW . . .
In addition to the Wisconsin CDL (commercial driver's license) information found in our website covering the Wisconsin CDL and in the free Wisconsin CDL Handbook (which is quite boring and a bit confusing - and doesn't have a single multiple-choice question in it that is asked on the actual tests), the complete online
Wisconsin CDL Practice Test prep program will prepare you to easily pass your
Wisconsin CDL written exams to get your Wisconsin CDL permit. The skills test modules are invaluable to give you a head start before doing your
behind the wheel work, possibly saving you a lot of money. The Wisconsin CDL test prep program includes the following features . . .
- Covers ALL Eight Wisconsin CDL written tests.
- In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
- Covers ALL Three Wisconsin CDL skills tests.
- In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
- 670 practice Wisconsin CDL test questions with actual answers.
- Access to CDL videos covering written and skills tests.
- CDL study guide in both text and audio - listen as you read along.
- CDL study Quick Reviews.
- Interactive online CDL Quizzes.
- and much more!
May your new CAREER be prosperous!!!
Michael Hamilton
Director
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