Wisconsin CDL Handbook

January 2023

Wisconsin

Commercial

Driver’s Manual

PRELIMINARY INFORMATION 5 Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements 5 What is an Entry Level Driver Training provider and where can I find one? 5 Are any drivers exempt from Entry Level Driver Training requirements? 5 Wisconsin information 6 Federal information 6 What should I study in this manual? 7 What CDL do I need? 8 What are the CMV classifications? 8 Who is exempt from CDL licensing in Wisconsin? 11 What are endorsements? 12 What is a CDL restriction? 12 Social Security number requirement 13 Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal status requirement 13 What is interstate commerce? 13 What is intrastate commerce? 13 Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) 13 Skills testing 14 School bus “S” endorsement 15 Hazardous materials “H” endorsement 16 Farm service CDL 17 Commercial driver license medical requirements 18 Who is exempt from federal medical standards? 19 Federal medical standards frequently asked questions 20 Warnings and penalties 22 Identifying human trafficking 23

PART ONE 25

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION 25 1.1 Commercial driver license tests 25 1.2 Medical documentation requirements 27 1.3 CDL disqualifications 29 1.4 Other CDL rules 29 1.5 International Registration Plan (IRP) and International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) 30

SECTION 2: DRIVING SAFELY

31 2.1 Vehicle inspection 31 2.2 Basic control of your vehicle 41 2.3 Shifting gears 43 2.4 Seeing 45 2.5 Communicating 47 2.6 Controlling speed 49 2.7 Managing space 53 2.8 Seeing hazards 60 2.9 Distracted driving 64 2.10 Aggressive drivers/road rage 68 2.11 Night driving and driver fatigue 69 Who was grandfathered from federal medical standards? 19 2.13 Driving in winter 74 2.14 Driving in very hot weather 77 2.15 Railroad-highway crossings 78 2.16 Mountain driving 81 2.17 Driving emergencies 83 2.18 Antilock braking systems (ABS) 86 2.19 Skid control and recovery 88 2.20 Crash procedures 90 2.21 Fires 91 2.22 Alcohol, other drugs and driving 93 2.23 Hazardous materials rules for all commercial drivers 94

SECTION 3: TRANSPORTING CARGO SAFELY 97 3.1 Inspecting cargo 97 3.2 Weight and balance 97 3.3 Securing cargo 99 3.4 Cargo needing special attention 100

PART TWO 101

SECTION 4: TRANSPORTING PASSENGERS SAFELY 101 4.1 Vehicle inspection 101 4.2 Loading and trip start 102 4.3 On the road 103 4.4 After-trip vehicle inspection 105 4.5 Prohibited practices 105 4.6 Use of brake-door interlocks 105 5.1 The parts of an air brake system 106 5.2 Dual air brakes 112 5.3 Inspecting air brake systems 112 5.4 Using air brakes 115

SECTION 6: COMBINATION VEHICLES 119 6.1 Driving combination vehicles safely 119 6.2 Combination vehicle air brakes 123 6.3 Antilock brake systems 126 6.4 Coupling and uncoupling 127 6.5 Inspecting a combination vehicle 135

SECTION 7: DOUBLES AND TRIPLES 138 7.1 Pulling double/triple trailers 138 7.2 Coupling and uncoupling 139 7.3 Inspecting doubles and triples 141 7.4 Doubles/triples air brake check 142

SECTION 8: TANK VEHICLES 144 8.1 Inspecting tank vehicles 144 8.2 Driving tank vehicles 144 8.3 Safe driving rules 146 2.12 Driving in fog SECTION 5: AIR BRAKES

9.1 The intent of the regulations 149 9.2 Hazardous materials transportation—Who does what 150 9.3 Communication rules 151 9.4 Loading and unloading 162 9.5 Bulk packaging marking, loading and unloading 165 9.6 Driving and parking rules 167 9.7 Hazardous materials—emergencies 169 9.8 Hazardous materials glossary 175

SECTION 10: SCHOOL BUSES 179 Wisconsin license requirements 179 General school bus rules 180 10.1 Danger zones and use of mirrors 180 10.2 Loading and unloading 183 10.3 Emergency exit and evacuation 189 10.4 Railroad-highway crossings 192 10.5 Student management 195 10.6 Antilock braking systems 196 10.7 Special safety considerations 197 Vehicle inspection for school bus 199 SECTION 11: VEHICLE INSPECTION TEST 200 11.1 All vehicles 200 11.2 External inspection (all vehicles) 203 11.3 School bus only 207 11.4 Trailer 208 11.5 Coach/transit Bus 209 11.6 Taking the CDL vehicle inspection test 210 CDL Vehicle inspection memory aid 211

SECTION 12: BASIC TEXT CONTROL SKILLS TEST 213 12.1 Scoring 213 12.2 Exercises 213

SECTION 13: ON ROAD DRIVING TEST 215 13.1 How you will be tested 215 SECTION 9: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 148 PART THREE

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements Beginning February 7, 2022 the following applicants are required to successfully complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) prior to being eligible for commercial driver license (CDL) skills testing. Entry Level Driver Training includes theory and behind-the-wheel instruction at a training provider listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Training Provider Registry. • Drivers applying for Class Upgrades (Class B to Class A) • Drivers adding Hazardous Materials Endorsement (H) • Drivers adding Passenger Endorsement (P) • Drivers adding School Bus Endorsement (S) What is an Entry Level Driver Training provider and where can I find one? Entry Level Driver Training providers include, but are not limited to, training schools, educational institutions, rural electric cooperatives, motor carriers, State/ local governments, school districts, joint labor management programs, owneroperators and individuals. Most employers who train their own employees will be part of the program. Please check with your employer or contact a registered training provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry at https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. 1.Drivers excepted from the commercial driver license (CDL) requirements under 49 CFR §383.3(c), (d) and (h): a.383(c) – Exception for certain military drivers. b.383(d) – Exception for farmers, firefighters, emergency response vehicle drivers and drivers removing snow and ice. c.383(h) – Exception for drivers of covered farm vehicles. d.383(e) – Restricted CDL for certain drivers in the State of Alaska. e.383(f) – Restricted CDL for certain drivers in farm-related service industries. f.383(g) – Restricted CDL for certain drivers in the pyrotechnic industry. g.Drivers skills testing to remove an Air Brake Restriction h.Drivers skills testing to remove an Automatic Transmission Restriction 2.Drivers issued a Class A CDL, Class B CDL, or a passenger (P), school bus (S), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement before February 7, 2022. 3.Individuals who obtain a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) before February 7, 2022 are not required to comply with this regulation if they obtain a CDL before their CLP or renewed CLP expires. PRELIMINARY INFORMATION Are any drivers exempt from Entry Level Driver Training requirements?

• • CDL An Overview
• • CDL How to Apply
• • CDL Vehicle Inspection and Road Tests
• • Change Your Mailing Address
• • Commercial Driving Schools
• • Disqualifications
• • DMV Online Services
• • Endorsements
• • Federal Medical Certificate (Fed Med) and Your CDL
• • Find an Authorized Third Party Examiner for Your CDL Skills Test
• • Hazardous Materials
• • Medical Requirements for CDL
• • Motor Carriers and Trucking
• • Oversize/Overweight Permits
• • and more at wisconsindmv.gov DMV General Telephone (608) 264-7447 Wisconsin State Patrol office locations and contacts
• • Cargo Securement Rules
• • Driver Medical Exemption Programs
• • Federal Regulations, Rules and Notices
• • Frequently Asked Questions about Driver Medical Requirements
• • Find a Certified Medical Examiner
• • FMCSA Registration Process
• • HAZMAT Information
• • Hours of Service
• • Medical Examiner’s Certificate (FedMed Card)
• • Medical Requirements for Drivers
• • Safety Resources
• • Training Provider Registry
• • Veteran Drivers
• • and more at www.fmcsa.dot.gov! Wisconsin information Visit wisconsindmv.gov for: Federal information Visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ for: Section 1: Introduction Section 2: Driving Safely Section 3: Cargo Section 5: Air Brakes Section 6: Combination Vehicles Section 7: Doubles and Triples Section 9: Haz Mat (if needed) For a CDL to drive the following type of vehicle, study: Section 1: Introduction Section 2: Driving Safely Section 3: Cargo Section 5: Air Brakes Section 6: Combination Vehicles Section 9: Haz Mat (if needed) Section 1: Introduction Section 2: Driving Safely Section 3: Cargo Section 4: Passengers Section 5: Air Brakes (if needed) Section 10: School Bus For a CDL to drive the following type of vehicle, study: Section 1: Introduction Section 2: Driving Safely Section 3: Cargo Section 5: Air Brakes Section 6: Combination Vehicles (if needed) Section 9: Haz Mat (if needed) CDL is required when the following vehicles transport hazardous materials. In that case, study: Section 1: Introduction Section 2: Driving Safely Section 3: Transporting Cargo Safely Section 9: Haz Mat Study Section 8 if you want a tank vehicle endorsement. What should I study in this manual? For a CDL to drive the following type of vehicle, study: For a CDL to drive the following type of vehicle, study:
• • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or
• • actual gross weight, or
• • registered weight, or
• • Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) when the towed unit has a GVWR, registered weight or actual gross weight of over 10,000 pounds. What are the CMV classifications? CLASS A—Combination vehicle with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR), actual gross weight or registered weight of over 26,000 pounds, inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), actual gross weight or registered weight of over 10,000 pounds. CLASS C—Small vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), actual gross weight or registered weight of 26,000 pounds or less that either:
• • is designed to carry 16 or more persons including the driver
• • is of any size and is used in the transportation of hazardous materials as defined by 49 CFR 383.5. You must have a valid CDL to operate a commercial motor vehicle. What CDL do I need? The commercial driver license (CDL) you need depends on the class of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) you plan to drive. To determine the class of CMV, use the greater of the: CLASS B—Heavy straight vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), actual gross weight or registered weight of over 26,000 pounds. Flow Chart to Determine CDL Class Needed GVWR (Power Unit) + GVWR (Trailer) = GCWR Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) - weight of single vehicle Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) - weight of combined vehicles

Is the power unit’s GVWR |

26,001 p or m | ounds ore?

Class “A” YES YES YES Is the GCWR 26,001 pounds or more? Is the trailer’s GVWR 10,001 pounds or more?

Class “B” NO NO NO

Class “A” (combination weight Is the trailer’s GVWR 10,001 pounds or more? YES must be 26,001 pounds or more)

NO Is the vehicle transporting hazardous Class “C” YES materials in a placardable quantity?

NO Is the vehicle designed to transport 16 or Class “C” YES more passengers including the driver?

No CDL required NO

Vehicle Examples of CMV classifications | | | | | | | |

| Tractor Or Single Unit Truck | Trailer | Carries Hazmat | Is Designed To Transport 16 Or More Passengers Including The Driver | School Bus | Do I Need A CDL? | What Class? | Which Endorsement?

1 | 18,000# | 12,000# | X | | | Yes | A | H

2 | 8,000# | 20,000# | | | | Yes | A |

3 | 26,500# | | | | | Yes | B |

4 | 27,000# | 10,000# | | | | Yes | B |

5 | 27,000# | | | X | X | Yes | B | P and S

6 | 29,000# | | | X | | Yes | B | P

7 | 12,000# | | X | | | Yes | C | H

8 | 25,000# | | | X | | Yes | C | P

9 | 25,000# | | | X | X | Yes | C | P and S

10 | 5,000# | | X | | | Yes | C | H

11 | 16,000# | 10,000# | | | | No | D |

12 | 26,000# | 8,000# | | | | No | D |

13 | 10,000# | | | | X | No | D | S

14 | 6,000# | 20,000# | | | | No | D |

Tank Truck | | | | | | | |

15 | 26,000# | | | | | No | D |

16 | 26,010# | | | | | Yes | B | N

17 | 26,000# | 10,000# | | | | No | D |

18 | 26,000# | 10,000# | X | | | Yes | C | H–N

19 | 20,000# | 10,500# | | | | Yes | A | N

• • Firefighters and rescue squad members are not required to hold a CDL to drive properly equipped emergency or fire fighting vehicles. However, you may be required to obtain a CDL if you have a Wisconsin driver license and operate a fire fighting vehicle in another State.
• • Recreational vehicle operators (owned or leased motor home, fifth wheel mobile home or touring mobile home, provided it isn’t longer than 45 feet) not engaged in commercial activity are not required to hold a CDL.
• • A farmer, the farmer’s family members, and/or the farmer’s employees are not required to hold a CDL to drive a commercial motor vehicle owned or leased by the farmer, provided the vehicle is not used in ‘for hire’ carriage, is transporting farm supplies, produce or machinery to or from the farm and is within 150 miles of a farm in Wisconsin, Minnesota or Iowa. The farm supplies that a farmer may transport without obtaining a CDL may include hazardous materials. However, a farmer driving a commercial motor vehicle with double or triple trailers or designed to carry or actually carrying
• • Back-up (substitute or replacement) snowplow drivers (includes snow or ice removal by plowing, salting or sanding) for local units of government (defined as a county, city, village, town, school district, county utility district, sanitary district, metropolitan sewage district, or other public body created by or pursuant to state law) are not required to hold a CDL if they meet all of the following: ◊ Are an employee of a local unit of government with a population of 3,000 or less. ◊ Hold a valid Class D license. ◊ Are operating within the boundaries of the local unit of government ◊ Is one of the following: »Substituting for or replacing, a regular employee who ordinarily operates the vehicle. »An additional employee because a snow emergency exists as determined by the local unit of government. Who is exempt from CDL licensing in Wisconsin? Federal law allows States the option to waive certain kinds of drivers from the requirement to obtain a CDL. In Wisconsin, the following drivers are not required to hold a CDL: 16 or more passengers must have a CDL with proper endorsements. S—School bus P—Passenger vehicle: designed to transport or actually transporting 16 or more passengers including the driver H—Hazardous materials N—Tank vehicles: commercial vehicles equipped with a cargo tank T—Double or triple trailers: towing double or triple trailers F—Farm service: restricted to farm service operation

Endorsement Requirements | | | | | |

| S School Bus | P Passenger | H HAZMAT | N Tanker | T Doubles & Triples | F Farm Service

Knowledge Test | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes

Skills Test | Yes | Yes | — | — | — | —

Background Check | Yes | — | Yes | — | — | —

Finger- printing | Only if resident of other state in previous 2 years | — | Yes | — | — | —

Medical | Every 2 yrs. until 70; 1 yr. after 70 | Yes, applicant self certifies | — | — | — | —

What is a CDL restriction? A restriction is a limitation on your CDL. If you want to drive a vehicle with air brakes, for example, you must pass a knowledge test on air brake systems. You must also pass a skills test in a vehicle equipped with air brakes. If you choose not to take the air brake tests, you will have a commercial license restriction of “No air brake equipped CMV.” With this restriction on your CDL, you may not legally operate a commercial vehicle with air brakes. What are endorsements? Wisconsin issues endorsements for specific types of operation. Endorsements require additional knowledge testing. Some endorsements require skills tests, proof of meeting medical standards or a background check. An endorsement is evidence that you have passed the tests and have the information you need for special operation. You must pass tests and receive an endorsement to operate a: 51—CDL intrastate only in excepted industry V—CMV medical variance required L—No air brake equipped CMV Z—No full airbrake equipped CMV (Skills test was taken in vehicle with partial air brakes.) E—No manual transmission equipped CMV (Skills test was taken in an automatic transmission vehicle.) O—No tractor/trailer CMV (Skills test was not taken in a tractor-trailer combination.) M—No Class A passenger vehicle N—No Class A/B passenger vehicle X—No cargo in CMV tank vehicle To lift restrictions Z, E, O, N, or to add an S or P endorsement you must hold a Commercial Learner Permit for at least 14 days before taking a skills test.

Social Security number requirement Applicants for a commercial driver license are required to provide their Social Security number. The Social Security number will not appear on the driver license document but will be used to identify driver records between States.

Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal status requirement Commercial drivers must present proof of legal status upon original (first time) issuance of their CDL, renewal, when transferring an out-of-state CDL or when adding or removing a class, endorsement Under federal law effective March 1, 2015 temporary visitors from Canada and Mexico may no longer renew or change classes or endorsements on their Wisconsin CDL. If you are a temporary visitor from Canada or Mexico and wish to continue driving a commercial vehicle in the U.S., you must obtain a qualifying commercial driver license from Canada or Mexico before your current Wisconsin CDL expires.

What is interstate commerce? Interstate commerce is any trade, traffic or transportation in the U.S. between a place in a State and a place outside of such State OR is between two places in a State through another State or place outside of the U.S. Note: Transportation with a CMV within State lines is considered interstate commerce if the origin and/or destination of the cargo crosses State lines.

What is intrastate commerce? Intrastate commerce is any trade, traffic or transportation in any State which is not described in the term ‘interstate’ commerce.

Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) New commercial drivers must obtain a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) to practice driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) and prepare for the CDL skills test. To obtain a CLP you must: CDL restrictions are: K—CDL intrastate only or restriction. See the list of acceptable documents to prove U.S. citizenship or legal status at wisconsindmv.gov/DL-docs.

• • Hold a valid Wisconsin driver license
• • Pass the knowledge tests for the type of vehicle you will be driving
• • Have a valid federal medical card. Persons who do not have a valid federal medical card will be restricted to: ◊ CDL intrastate only ◊ CDS intrastate only in excepted industry A Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) is valid only to operate a CMV. The permit is valid for 180 days and will list the type of vehicles and endorsements for which you have qualified. Certain restrictions will apply to your operation with a CLP:
• • You must have a qualified driving instructor or a person who is licensed to operate that type of CMV and who is at least 21 years old, sitting next to you at all times.
• • You may not transport passengers. However, if the accompanying driver is a qualified instructor, 3 other persons with commercial learner permits may also ride along.
• • Unless you are restricted, you may transport property in a CMV while you are driving with a CLP.
• • You may not operate in interstate commerce with a CLP unless you are at least 21 years old and have a federal medical certificate (Fed Med card). Drivers who upgrade class, restrictions or endorsements will need a CLP if the upgrade requires a skills test. Any vehicle considered illegal for highway use or for use on a skills test route, will not be allowed for skills test purposes. The license endorsements for driving a school bus or other CMV carrying passengers, require that the applicant pass a skills test in a school bus or passenger-carrying vehicle. DMV authorizes third party examiners to administer CDL skills tests. Contact an authorized third party examiner to schedule your CDL skills test. It is best to schedule a skills test appointment well in advance. You will have a minimum two-day waiting period. In addition to following the link above, you can find the list of authorized third party examiners by going to wisconsindmv.gov and searching “third party examiners” using the search bar. Licensed commercial drivers are subject to retesting by Wisconsin DMV and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration CDL examiners. Military service CDL skills test waiver You may qualify for a CDL skills test waiver if you obtained a military license issued by a military facility that allowed you to operate a military commercial vehicle. You also avoid the fee for the skills test when you qualify for this waiver. Skills testing You must have a CLP for 14 days before you are allowed to take a skills test. All applicants for a commercial driver license must pass a skills test in the type of vehicle they plan to drive. You must pass all three segments of the skills test on the same CLP.
• • Be at least 18 years of age School bus “S” endorsement Applicants for a school bus “S” endorsement must:
• • Be at least 18 years of age.
• • Have a valid Wisconsin driver license of the appropriate class.
• • Present either a valid federal medical card or a completed Medical Examination Report MV3030B to fulfill commercial driver license medical requirements.
• • Have no conviction for any offense on the list of school bus disqualifications.
• • Pass knowledge, road signs, vision and skills tests. School bus disqualifications A driver applying for, renewing or transferring a school bus endorsement will undergo a criminal background check. A conviction for any offense on the list of school bus disqualifications will result in from two years to a lifetime disqualification from driving a school bus. In addition to following the link above, you can find the list of school bus disqualifications by going to wisconsindmv.gov and searching “school bus disqualifications” using the search bar.

Requirement | School Bus “S” Endorsement

Special application (in addition to form MV3001) | Yes, self-certification form MV3740)

Fingerprinting | Only required of those who have been a resident of another state in the past two years.

Have no conviction for any offense on the list of school bus disqualifications | Applicant self-certifies on form MV3740. Background check is conducted for original issuance, each renewal, issuance of a duplicate and every 4 years.

Medical exam | Yes, at original issuance and renewal, plus biennial proof of physical fitness. If 70 or older, annual physical fitness reports are required.

Testing at renewal | Yes, knowledge test, signs test and abbreviated skills test.

Complete WisDOT form MV3588 and identify the type of vehicle operated. Include the vehicle weight, capacity (trailer weight, number of passengers, tanker size, etc.) and whether the vehicle had air brakes. This information will help a DMV staff person determine the appropriate classes and endorsements for a Wisconsin CDL. WisDOT form MV3588 must be signed by your commanding officer or a training officer. You must still pass the knowledge test(s). You must be a Wisconsin resident to be eligible for this waiver. This waiver does not include the skills test for the school bus “S” endorsement. School bus drivers must also file a new medical report every 2 years and upon renewal of their “S” endorsement (if 70 or older, every year). Section 10 in this manual informs about driving a school bus. School bus or alternative vehicle The publication School Bus or Alternative Vehicle gives the definition of a school bus, gives the definition of an alternative vehicle for transport of students and certain other people, and informs of driver requirements for both vehicles. In addition to following the link above, you can find this publication by going to wisconsindmv.gov and searching “school bus or alternative vehicle” using the search bar.

Hazardous materials “H” endorsement Applicants for a hazardous materials (HazMat) “H” endorsement must present proof of citizenship or legal status in the U.S. upon application for knowledge testing, original issuance and all renewals. When applying for, renewing or transferring an “H” endorsement on a CDL, you will need to provide your fingerprints for an FBI criminal background check. You should complete licensing requirements with the Wisconsin DMV for a CDL and “H” endorsement Applicants for an “H” endorsement are also subject to a name-based FBI criminal history records check and a check of federal databases. You will not be permitted to obtain, renew or transfer an “H” endorsement if you:

• • Have been convicted or found not guilty by reason of insanity of certain crimes on the list of hazardous materials disqualifications during the 7 years prior to the date of your application.
• • Have been in prison for any of those certain crimes during the 5 years prior to the date of your application.
• • Are wanted or under indictment for any of those certain crimes.
• • Have been adjudicated as lacking mental capacity or have been involuntarily committed to a mental health facility as specified in 49 CFR 1572.109. In addition to following the link above, you can find the list of hazardous materials disqualifications by going to wisconsindmv. gov and searching “hazardous materials disqualifications” using the search bar. If you hold an “H” endorsement and are disqualified at any time, you must surrender the “H” endorsement. Section 9 in this manual informs about transporting hazardous materials. Renewal of school bus “S” endorsement Wisconsin school bus drivers must pass the knowledge test, road signs, vision and an abbreviated skills test at renewal (if 70 or older, every 2 years) to retain their “S” endorsement. before you make an appointment to have your fingerprints collected. Renewal of “H” endorsement DMV will coordinate the expiration date of your first “H” endorsement with the expiration date of your CDL. This means your first “H” endorsement could be valid for up to five years depending on when your CDL expires. All subsequent renewals of your “H” endorsement will be valid for four years. Fingerprinting and background checks must be completed for issuance of your first “H” endorsement, at your first renewal and every four years thereafter even though your commercial driver license may be valid for eight years. You must also pass a knowledge test for the “H” endorsement, have a valid federal medical card and present proof of citizenship or legal status in the U.S. at the same intervals. Farm service CDL A special, restricted Farm Service CDL is available for persons employed by a farm service industry for 180 days or less per calendar year. The publication Wisconsin Farm Service CDL explains what ‘farm service industry’ means, informs about the restrictions of a Farm Service CDL and lists requirements to obtain it. In addition to following the link above, you can find this publication by going to wisconsindmv.gov and searching “farm service CDL” using the search bar.

Requirement | Hazmat “H” Endorsement

Special application (in addition to form MV3001) | Yes, application for “H” endorsement form MV3735

Fingerprinting/Threat Assessment | Assessment includes fingerprints, criminal history records check, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence in the U.S. and military service information including branch, date and type of discharge.

Have no conviction for any offense on the list of Hazardous Materials Disqualifications | Applicant self-certifies on form MV3735. Background check is conducted for original issuance, each renewal and for out-of-state transfer applicants for H endorsement.

Testing at renewal | Yes, knowledge test.

Present proof of citizenship or legal status in the U. S. | Yes, upon application for knowledge testing, original issuance and all renewals.

What is acceptable proof of examination? Acceptable proof of examination is a completed Medical Examiner’s Certificate (also called a Fed Med card). A certified medical examiner completes and provides the Medical Examiner’s Certificate to you upon completion your medical examination and the FMCSA Medical Examination Report. Only a certified medical examiner may perform your federal medical examination. How can I find a certified medical examiner? You can find a certified medical examiner by searching the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. A Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Fed Med card) must include the medical examiner’s federal registry number. Are there federal exemptions from any physical impairments or diseases? A person may apply for a federal exemption (waiver) from the diabetes, hearing, seizure and/or vision standards through the FMCSA Driver Exemption Programs. These programs have specific requirements. You might qualify if you want to drive in interstate commerce and are unable to Does Wisconsin offer any State waivers to commercial drivers? Yes, Wisconsin offers two State waivers for commercial drivers:

• • A diabetes waiver can help drivers who are insulin-dependent and do not operate in an excepted industry.
• • A vision waiver can help drivers who have less than 20/40 vision in either eye or less than 70-degree field of vision in either eye and do not operate in an excepted industry. A Wisconsin State waiver (for intrastate commerce) is not the same as a Federal exemption (for interstate commerce). A Wisconsin waiver can be used for intrastate commerce only. In addition to following the link above, you can find more information (including how to apply) at wisconsindmv.gov and searching “Wisconsin State waiver information for CDL drivers.” What if I don’t hold a Fed Med card? You will be issued a restricted CDL if you do not hold a Fed Med card and are not grandfathered. The license would only be valid if you are a school bus driver or are employed by a political subdivision (village, town, city, state). Refer to Federal Medical Standards Frequently Asked Questions for answers to common questions about federal medical standards and grandfathering. Commercial driver license medical requirements To drive in intrastate or interstate non-excepted commerce, you must have passed a federal medical examination within the past 2 years, in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. FMCSA 49 CFR 391, Subpart E details the physical qualifications needed to operate a commercial motor vehicle. obtain a Fed Med card because you do not currently meet the diabetes, hearing, seizure and/or vision standards. U.S. DOT Office of Motor Carriers 1 Point Place, Suite 101 Madison, WI 53719-2809 Phone: (608) 662-2010 Website: www.fmcsa.gov (Federal medical standard questions only please) Who was grandfathered from federal medical standards? Drivers issued a Wisconsin CDL prior to July 29, 1996 were grandfathered from the federal medical standards that took effect on that date. Grandfathered drivers are not required to have a federal medical exam or fulfill federal medical standards to drive in intrastate (within Wisconsin only) commerce. These drivers lose their grandfathered status if their CDL is ever revoked. Grandfathered status cannot be transferred from one State to another. Grandfathered drivers must still meet Wisconsin medical standards such as visual acuity of 20/60 in the best eye. Grandfathered drivers may also appeal to the Medical Review Board if they do not meet Wisconsin medical standards. Who is exempt from federal medical standards? Drivers employed by a political subdivision (federal, state, county, city, township or village) and operating a CMV owned by the political subdivision are exempt from the federal medical standards. These drivers must still meet Wisconsin medical School bus drivers employed by a school district and driving a school bus owned by the district are exempt from the federal medical standards. They may cross State lines to transport students between home and school or when driving for curricular or extracurricular activities and charter trips. School bus drivers employed by a commercial contractor and driving a school bus owned by the contractor are exempt from the federal standards while operating within Wisconsin. They may also cross State lines to transport students between home and school. But they are required to have a valid federal medical card to drive across State lines for curricular or extracurricular activities and charter trips. Drivers who do not have a federal medical card and are not grandfathered will be issued a CDL or Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) with the following two restrictions:
• • CDL intrastate only
• • CDL intrastate only in excepted industry These two restrictions limit a driver with a CDL or CLP to:
• • Operate a CMV for a political subdivision provided they are an employee of the political subdivision and the CDL has the proper class and endorsement for the CMV operated.
• • Operate a school bus if they meet the State medical standards for a school bus endorsement and the CDL has the proper class and endorsement for the CMV operated. Direct other questions regarding federal medical standards to: standards and obtain a CDL corresponding to the vehicle they plan to drive. If you do not meet the federal visual acuity standard of 20/40 in both eyes but have a federal medical card, you will be referred to a vision or other appropriate medical specialist. If you are issued a CLP or CDL, you will have the “CDL intrastate only” restriction. You will also have the “CDL intrastate only in excepted industry” restriction if you are not grandfathered. If you are 18, 19 or 20 years of age and are not exempt by federal or state law, you will need a federal medical card if you wish to operate a CMV in intrastate commerce. If you have a federal medical card, DMV will issue your CDL with the “CDL intrastate only” restriction because federal law does not allow a person under age 21 to operate a CMV in interstate commerce. You can appeal to the Medical Review Board for intrastate driving if you have been grandfathered. You also can appeal to the board if you are a new driver who plans to drive for exempt groups (political subdivision or school district). The Medical Review Board, however, cannot make exceptions to the federal standards. Therefore, no driver required to have a federal medical card can appeal to the board. What is interstate commerce? Any trade, traffic or transportation in the U.S. which is between a place in a State and a place outside of such State, or is between two places in a State through another State, or a place outside of the U.S. Note: Transportation with a CMV within State lines is considered interstate commerce if the origin and/or destination of the cargo crosses State lines. What is intrastate commerce? Any trade, traffic or transportation in any State that is not described in the term “interstate commerce.” Is there a simple definition of commerce? Every driver of a CMV is considered to be in commerce unless they are exempt, i.e. driving for a political subdivision or driving a school bus. Do CMV drivers employed by a political subdivision need a federal medical card? No. Drivers employed by any political subdivision (federal, state, county, city, township or village) operating a CMV owned by the political subdivision are exempt from the federal standards. Federal medical standards frequently asked questions Since July 29, 1996 drivers of commercial motor vehicles operating in intrastate commerce must meet the federal medical standards and present a valid federal medical card when they apply for a commercial driver license unless they have been grandfathered or are exempt by federal or state law. Note: Drivers who have a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) with both restrictions may not practice operating a CMV with a commercial driving school. Wisconsin residents who take a commercial driving course to operate a CMV through a Wisconsin Technical College, however, may practice operating with the technical school because it is a political subdivision and exempt. Drivers employed by a private contractor and driving a bus owned by the contractor are exempt from the federal standards while operating within Wisconsin and when crossing State lines to transport students between home and school. A valid federal medical card is required when operating across State lines for curricular or extracurricular activities and charter trips. Are CMV drivers operating a passenger bus exempt from federal medical standards? No. Drivers needing a “P” endorsement who do not have the federal medical card and are not grandfathered will be issued a license with two restrictions: “CDL intrastate only” and “CDL intrastate only in excepted industry. These two restrictions do not cause a problem for a driver with a “P” endorsement who, for example, drives a bus owned by a municipality (which is exempt). The restrictions cause a problem for other drivers with a “P” endorsement who, for example, drive bus for a private human service agency (not exempt). They must present a federal medical card (unless grandfathered) to prevent having these two restrictions on their CDL. Applicants for a CDL must know May a driver who holds a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) with a “P” endorsement, practice operating a school bus? No. A driver must have an “S” endorsement on their CLP to operate a school bus. May a driver who holds a CLP practice operating a truck without a federal medical card? It depends on who owns the vehicle. No, not if the vehicle is owned by a commercial driving school or an employer that is not a political subdivision. Yes, if the vehicle is owned by a Wisconsin Technical College or an employer that is a political subdivision. What happens to drivers who don’t pass a vision test, yet have a federal medical card? They will be referred to a vision or other appropriate medical specialist. If issuance continues, the license will have the “CDL interstate only” restriction and, if the driver is not grandfathered, the “CDL intrastate only in excepted industry” restriction. What type of driving may drivers perform if they are not grandfathered and do not have a federal medical card? They may drive for exempt groups (a political subdivision or school district) if they meet the Wisconsin school bus driver standards or are approved by the Medical Review Board. Do school bus drivers employed by a school district or private contractor need the federal medical card? Drivers employed by a school district and driving a bus owned by the district are exempt from the federal standards. They may cross State lines to transport students between home and school or when driving for curricular or extracurricular activities and charter trips. the type of operation in which they will be involved to determine if they will be required to have a federal medical card. Who may appeal to the Medical Review Board? Drivers who are grandfathered may appeal to the Medical Review Board for intrastate driving. Additionally, a driver who plans to drive for an exempt group (i.e. a political subdivision or school district) may appeal to the Board. The Medical Review Board, however, cannot make any exceptions to the federal standards. Therefore, no driver required to have a federal medical card may appeal to the Board. If not grandfathered, may a person with insulin-dependent diabetes get a CDL for intrastate driving? Yes, if they present two satisfactory medical reports from two physicians to the DMV Medical Review and Fitness Unit. They will be issued a CDL with the restrictions “CDL intrastate only” and “CDL intrastate only in excepted industry.” They will also receive a letter to carry with them while operating a CMV, that confirms they have qualified for this exemption. Warnings and penalties If you drive a vehicle over 10,000 pounds in interstate commerce, you may be subject to Federal Motor Carrier safety regulations under 49 CFR 390.5. Contact a State Patrol office for details. Penalty for operating without a CDL (for drivers) 1st Offense: $200–$600 fine or not more than 6 months in jail; 3 points 2nd within 3 years: $300­–$1,000 fine or 5 days to 6 months in jail; 3 points 3rd or more within 3 years: $1,000–$2,000 fine and 10 days to 6 months in jail; 3 points Penalty for operating without a CDL (for employers) The penalty for employers who place unqualified drivers on the road is a $2,500–$10,000 fine or not more than 90 days in jail; or both. Wisconsin’s Implied Consent law If a law enforcement officer asks you to submit to testing to determine a concentration of alcohol or other drugs in your system, Wisconsin’s Implied Consent law requires you to do so. If you refuse to take a test requested by the officer, your operating privilege will be revoked for a minimum of one year and you will be subject to other penalties. Oversize-overweight permits You need to obtain a special permit to move an oversize and/or overweight vehicle. The web page Oversize-Overweight Permits provides information to help you determine when a permit is required, how to apply for a permit and much more. Do drivers age 18, 19, or 20 years old need a federal medical card? Yes, if they wish to operate a CMV in intrastate commerce and are not exempt by federal or state law. If they present a federal medical card, their CDL will be issued with the “CDL intrastate only” restriction because federal law does not permit a person under age 21 to operate a CMV in interstate commerce. In addition to following the link above, you can find State Patrol office locations and contact information by going to wisconsindot.gov and searching “State Patrol office locations”. Additional notes
• • You must renew your CDL every 8 years. The 8-year period cannot be extended; the license must be renewed.
• • If you move (change your address), you must apply for a duplicate CDL with your new address within 10 days of moving. Apply at any DMV Service Center.
• • Wisconsin law requires issuance of only one license to each driver.
• • Wisconsin law requires enforcement of CDL disqualifications for alcohol and other serious traffic violations. Identifying human trafficking As a professional driver, you are in a unique position to identify potential cases of human trafficking. Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery in which traffickers use force, fraud or coercion to control victims for the purpose of engaging in paid sex acts or working against their will. This includes situations of forced labor, debt bondage, and involuntary child labor. People of all ages can be involved. Minors under the age of 18 engaging in commercial sex are considered to be victims of human trafficking, regardless of how they got involved. Make a difference. Identify victims so they can be rescued and help bring their perpetrators to justice.
• • Call law enforcement. Do not approach traffickers. The victims may already be in danger. Do nothing to make the situation worse.
• • Tell law enforcement “actionable information” and as many details as you can provide. ◊ Description of cars (make, model, color, license plate number, etc.) and people (age, height, weight, hair color, eye color, clothes, etc.) Take a picture if you can. ◊ Specific time and dates. (What date did you see the event in question take place? What time?) ◊ Address and locations where suspicious activity took place. ◊ Direction in which the vehicle left.
• • National Human Trafficking Resource Center ◊ 1 (888) 373-7888 ◊ Call for help or to report a tip 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• • Notice someone not properly dressed for the season, bruises or marks on their person, not making sense when speaking or not knowing where they are or going, not in control of their own identification documents (ID/passport), communicating they are endangered. In addition to following the link above, you can find this web page by going to wisconsindmv.gov and searching “oversize-overweight permits” using the search bar.