Understand federal Entry-Level Driver Training requirements and choose the right program.
Choose the course that matches your CDL goal and complete the required theory curriculum online with a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
Entry-Level Driver Training, commonly called ELDT, is the federal minimum training standard for people entering certain commercial driving roles. The rules establish the subjects a driver must study, the behind-the-wheel skills that must be demonstrated when applicable, and the qualifications a training provider must meet.
ELDT is not the CDL permit test or the final road test. It is required training completed before an eligible applicant may take the applicable state-administered CDL skills test or, for a first-time hazardous materials endorsement, the HazMat knowledge test. Training must be provided by an organization listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Training Provider Registry.
For first-time Class A applicants and Class B drivers upgrading to Class A. Covers the knowledge and vehicle skills used to operate combination vehicles.
For first-time Class B applicants preparing to operate heavy single vehicles such as many straight trucks and buses.
Theory training required before a first-time hazardous materials endorsement applicant may take the state HazMat knowledge test.
Federal ELDT requirements generally apply to drivers seeking a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, current Class B drivers upgrading to Class A, and first-time applicants for a passenger (P), school bus (S), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement.
The federal rules are not retroactive for a CDL or covered endorsement issued before February 7, 2022. Limited exceptions may apply, and states may impose requirements beyond the federal minimum, so applicants should confirm their individual status with their state licensing agency.
Class A and Class B applicants complete both theory instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Behind-the-wheel instruction includes range and public-road skills and must be completed to the instructor’s proficiency standard. Passenger and school bus endorsements also include applicable theory and behind-the-wheel instruction. HazMat ELDT consists of theory training.
Federal rules do not set a universal minimum number of hours for theory or behind-the-wheel instruction. Theory students must cover the required curriculum and earn at least 80% on the provider’s assessment. A state or training program may have additional hour requirements.
Your state licensing agency electronically checks the Training Provider Registry before allowing the applicable skills or knowledge test. Ask the provider how quickly completion records are submitted and verify that your legal name and license information are entered correctly.
Confirm that the provider and exact training location appear in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Compare the curriculum, delivery format, instructor support, refund policy, total price, and whether behind-the-wheel training is included or must be purchased separately. Online theory can be convenient, but Class A, Class B, passenger, and school bus applicants still need applicable hands-on training.
Yes. A registered provider may offer theory training online. The provider must cover the required curriculum, assess the student, and report successful completion to the TPR.
No. ELDT satisfies a training prerequisite. You must still meet your state’s licensing requirements and pass the required knowledge and skills tests.
ELDT is generally verified before the applicable CDL skills test, not before the initial commercial learner’s permit knowledge test. HazMat completion is verified before the HazMat knowledge test.
Federal guidance generally treats successful completion as a one-time completion for the applicable curriculum, but applicants should confirm current state procedures and any provider-specific policies.
The federal curriculum is a nationwide minimum. States may impose additional training, licensing, testing, or documentation requirements.