Truck Driver Career Guide in Wisconsin
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Wisconsin.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Wisconsin
Wisconsin technical colleges offer CDL instruction covering inspections, backing, coupling, shifting, highway operation, winter driving, cargo securement, and federal motor-carrier rules.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Truck Driver Salary in Wisconsin
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Wisconsin median wage for truck driver workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $57,440, the median wage in Wisconsin is approximately $1,170 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Wisconsin
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONTruck Driver Training Requirements in Wisconsin
Wisconsin tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL and must complete applicable federal Entry-Level Driver Training.
- Meet Wisconsin age, residency, identity, driving-record, and medical-certification requirements.
- Pass the required knowledge tests and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel instruction with a registered provider.
- Pass vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and on-road CDL skills tests.
- Complete required endorsement testing and employer training for winter driving, cargo, and assigned equipment.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Wisconsin
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Fox Valley Technical College | Appleton | View Program |
| Waukesha County Technical College | Pewaukee | View Program |
| Chippewa Valley Technical College | Eau Claire | View Program |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Milwaukee | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESTruck Driver Apprenticeship Programs in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Registered Apprenticeship
Organization: Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Wisconsin
Wisconsin heavy and tractor-trailer drivers generally require a Class A CDL. Applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete ELDT, meet medical standards, and pass applicable knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Wisconsin projects employment to rise from approximately 52,250 drivers in 2022 to 56,180 in 2032, representing 8% growth and about 6,020 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the truck driver salary in Wisconsin?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Wisconsin is approximately $58,610 per year, or $28.18 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Wisconsin require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Wisconsin requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt truck driver work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Wisconsin Department of Transportation — Division of Motor Vehicles.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Wisconsin?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 3–6 Months + OJT, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are truck drivers in demand in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 8% from 2022 to 2032, with about 6,020 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Wisconsin Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Wisconsin Truck Driver Wages
- Wisconsin Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Wisconsin Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation — Division of Motor Vehicles — Licensing authority. Wisconsin Department of Transportation — Division of Motor Vehicles