How to Get Your CDL in Wisconsin and Delaware

How to Get Your CDL in Wisconsin and Delaware If you live in Wisconsin or Delaware, learn the guideline for getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) below. For information regarding other states, TheJobNetwork has published a very comprehensive guide on how to apply for a CDL in all states. WisconsinIn Wisconsin, you must obtain a CDL if you are operating the following:A vehicle or vehicles with a combined weight of 26,000+ poundsA vehicle carrying  hazardous materials that require placarding under federal lawA vehicle  designed or used to carry 16 or more persons including the driverFirst, in order to obtain a CDL, you must take and pass the General Knowledge Test. A passing score is answering 80% of more of the questions correctly. You must present a valid Class D license at the time of testing.You are then eligible to obtain a Commercial Driver Learner Permit (CLP). In order to obtain one, you must:Complete a Wisconsin Driver  License ApplicationComplete a Commercial Driver CertificationPresent a  valid F ederal Medical CardProvide Proof of Citizenship or Legal Status in the U.S.Pay the required fee(s)Your CLP  is  valid for 180 days. When you have a CLP, you can  practice driving with a qualified instructor or CDL driver holding a valid license at or above the level of your permit.  You must hold the permit for 14 days prior to taking the road tests you must pass in order to obtain a CDL.Finally, you must take and pass your skills tests.  During the skills tests, you drive in the type of vehicle you seek a  license for.  You will be tested in pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.DelawareIn Delaware, you must have a CDL to operate:Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001+ poundsA combination vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001+ pounds, if  the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is more than  10,000 poundsA vehicle designed to transport 16+ passengers (including the driver)Any size vehicle requiring hazardous material placards or carrying materia l listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73Knowledge TestsTo obtain a CDL, you must first pass one or more knowledge tests,  depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need.The general knowledge test is taken by all applicants.The passenger transport test is taken by all bus driver applicants.The air brakes test is required  if your vehicle has air brakes (including air over hydraulic brakes).The combination vehicles test is required if you want to drive combination vehicles.The hazardous materials test is required if you want to haul hazardous materials as defined in 49 CFR 383.5.The tank vehicle test is required if you want to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank or tanks with  an individual rated capacity of 119+ gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000+ gallons permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassisThe doubles/triples test is required if you want to pull double or triple trailersThe school bus test is req uired if you want to drive a school busSkills TestsIf you pass the required knowledge test or tests, you must then  take and pass the CDL skills tests. There are three skills tested.   You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.Vehicle InspectionThis test will see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to complete an inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner exactly what you are doing and why.Basic Vehicle ControlThis test will assess your control of  your  vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area.On-Road TestThis test will assess  your skills safely driving your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations like left and right turns, intersections, railroad crossings, curves, up and down grades, single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways.