Truck Driving Schools in Wisconsin

The article below dives into every key consideration that an aspiring truck driver in Wisconsin must know to start their careers. Understanding these requirements will help candidates start on the right path and give them the confidence they need to do things right and enjoy the process as much as possible.

Below, we break down the steps involved in the process, from the basic prerequisites to the required training hours. We also dive into various state licensure requirements to get a commercial driver’s license.

Further down the page, candidates will discover top truck driving training schools in Wisconsin accredited to prepare students for their CDL exams. Lastly, we round up by breaking down the possible salary projections for fresh truck drivers in Wisconsin to look forward to.

How to Become a Truck Driver in Wisconsin

Aspiring truck drivers in Wisconsin are expected to follow the steps below to start their careers.

Basic Requirements

The basic requirements to become a truck driver in Wisconsin include being at least 18 years old, having a regular driving license, and being proficient in English. Candidates must have a good driving record and be clean of drugs.

Commercial Learner Permit

Candidates must have a commercial learner’s permit to practice with actual trucks before receiving their official license. The commercial learner’s permit in Wisconsin is valid for 80 days.

Enroll in a Training School

Once the above requirements are met, the next step in becoming a truck driver in Wisconsin is to seek admission into a training school. Below, we explore a few wonderful training programs to consider.

It is worth pointing out that when applying to a CDL truck driving school, candidates must ensure that they enroll in programs that boast experienced instructors and significant hands-on training for CDL test preparation.

These schools will teach students about road and truck safety aspects that they need to know before the license tests. Private academies, driver mills, private companies, and even community colleges typically offer such training.

Pass the CDL Test

The CDL test in Wisconsin includes a knowledge test where candidates must prove their knowledge of Wisconsin and federal driving regulations. They must have at least 80% in this section to pass.

The skills test includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road tests.

Explore Trades with Similar Paths:

• Learn to become an auto mechanic in Wisconsin

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The above steps are everything it takes to receive a commercial driver’s license to drive heavy trucks in Wisconsin. The commercial learner’s permit costs $30 to acquire, while an actual commercial driver’s license costs $74.

Candidates are also expected to renew their licenses by paying a $74 fee.

Truck drivers in the state can earn additional endorsements to specialize in certain areas, including school buses and hazardous material truck driving. The school bus endorsement costs $5, while a hazardous material endorsement in Wisconsin costs $45. The CDL test itself costs $150.

Top Truck Driving Schools in Wisconsin

The following are some of the most prominent truck driving schools in Wisconsin.

Explore truck driving schools in Wisconsin by city:

• Truck Driving Schools in Milwaukee

Salary & Career Outlook

In Wisconsin, a truck driver typically earns an annual average salary of $82,381. This number is about 3% higher than the national average. It mostly applies to those who have reached the midpoint in their careers, particularly about factors like experience, credentials, and specialty areas.

Truck drivers in Wisconsin who are just starting may understandably earn less than the state average, most likely taking home an annual average salary of around $54,379. With the above factors optimized, however, a Wisconsin truck driver may earn as high as $124,802 every year.

The state’s highest-paying cities for truck drivers include Janesville and Appleton, with annual average salaries of $125,362 and $123,384, respectively. Kenosha and Green Bay also follow closely with annual average salaries of $120,846 and $114,070.

Madison is completing the top five with an annual average salary of $112,328. Truck drivers in Milwaukee take home an annual average salary of $107,203.