• A CDL is required to drive a vehicle containing hazardous materials.tanker truck image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com
  
  Operating a commercial vehicle in Wisconsin requires a Commercial Driver License or CDL. A CDL is required for vehicles that exceed 26,000 pounds, carry hazardous materials or carry 16 people or more. Obtaining a CDL requires the driver to take a knowledge test, as well as a driving skills test using the type of vehicle they drive.
  
  

Medical Requirements

• Driving in intrastate or interstate commerce requires the driver to pass a medical examination. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, all CDL applicants must submit a DOT physical performed within the last two years. Acceptable proof for the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles is a Medical Examiner's Certificate completed by a licensed medical examiner. The state of Wisconsin defines an appropriate medical examiner as a physician, doctors of osteopathy, doctors of chiropractic, physician assistants and advance practice nurses who are registered in accordance to Wisconsin state laws. Waivers for pre-existing medical conditions or physical impairments are often available through the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles. Failure to provide a Medical Examiner's Certificate will result in the issuance of a restricted CDL.
  
  

Testing Requirements

• CDL applicants are required to take a knowledge test after submitting a valid class D driver's license. In Wisconsin, all knowledge tests are given free of charge, and no appointment is necessary. Taking the knowledge portion of the test usually takes 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Drivers must score 80 percent on the knowledge test to receive a passing grade. Applying for a Hazardous Materials endorsement requires applicants to present a Social Security card and proof of United States citizenship.
  
  

Skills Test

• CDL applicants must schedule a skills test after passing the knowledge test. The Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles requires applicants to complete the skills portion of the test with a third-party examiner. Third-party examiners are required by law to conduct the same CDL road and pre-trip tests as provided by Wisconsin state examiners. Fees cannot exceed $85.00 per test and $15.00 if only the pre-trip test is retaken.