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If you plan to earn a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or add certain endorsements, you may need to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). These federal requirements establish minimum training standards for certain CDL applicants before they can take the applicable skills or knowledge test.
Understanding ELDT can help you prepare for the licensing process and avoid unnecessary delays. This guide explains who must complete the training, what theory and behind-the-wheel training include, how long the process takes, and how to find a registered training provider.
What Is Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)?
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal training program established by the Entry-Level Driver Training, or ELDT, refers to federal training requirements established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The requirements are designed to ensure that new commercial drivers receive consistent instruction in the knowledge and practical skills needed to operate commercial vehicles safely.
ELDT generally applies to individuals who are:
- Applying for a Class A CDL for the first time
- Applying for a Class B CDL for the first time
- Upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A CDL
- Applying for a Hazardous Materials (H), Passenger (P), or School Bus (S) endorsement for the first time
Applicants must complete the required training with a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). The provider then submits the applicant’s completion record to the registry.
Before administering the applicable test, the state licensing agency verifies that the required training has been completed. Class A, Class B, Passenger, and School Bus applicants must complete ELDT before taking the applicable skills test. Hazardous Materials endorsement applicants must complete the required theory training before taking the knowledge test.
Why Did the FMCSA Introduce the ELDT Mandate?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) introduced the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) mandate to establish consistent minimum training standards for new commercial drivers across the United States.
The ELDT mandate was designed to:
- Improve highway safety by requiring entry-level drivers to complete training before taking certain CDL skills or knowledge tests
- Establish consistent training requirements for eligible CDL applicants
- Prepare drivers for real-world responsibilities, including vehicle inspections, safe driving practices, hazard awareness, and emergency procedures
- Require training to be completed through a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR)
The ELDT regulations took effect on February 7, 2022. They apply to certain first-time Class A and Class B CDL applicants, drivers upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A CDL, and first-time applicants for Hazardous Materials, Passenger, or School Bus endorsements.
Who Must Complete ELDT Training?
Not every CDL applicant is required to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for applicants seeking certain commercial driver’s licenses or endorsements for the first time.
You must complete ELDT if you are:
| Applicant | Is ELDT Required? |
|---|---|
| Applying for a Class A CDL for the first time | Yes |
| Applying for a Class B CDL for the first time | Yes |
| Upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A CDL | Yes |
| Applying for a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement for the first time | Yes |
| Applying for a Passenger (P) endorsement for the first time | Yes |
| Applying for a School Bus (S) endorsement for the first time | Yes |
Who Is Exempt from ELDT Training?
The required training must be completed through a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Class A, Class B, Passenger, and School Bus applicants must complete ELDT before taking the applicable skills test. Hazardous Materials applicants must complete the required theory training before taking the knowledge test.
| Driver or Applicant | Is ELDT Required? |
|---|---|
| A driver who previously held the same Class A or Class B CDL | No |
| A driver who previously held the same H, P, or S endorsement | No |
| An applicant who received a CLP before February 7, 2022, and earned the CDL before the CLP or renewed CLP expired | No |
| An applicant who qualifies for an exception from the CDL skills test under federal regulations | No* |
| A driver renewing an existing CDL or previously held endorsement | No |
*Federal exceptions may apply to certain military personnel, farmers, firefighters, emergency-response drivers, and restricted CDL applicants who meet the applicable requirements.
An exemption based on a previously issued CDL or endorsement applies only to that same credential. For example, a driver who earned a Class B CDL before February 7, 2022, must still complete ELDT to upgrade to a Class A CDL. Likewise, a current CDL holder must complete the applicable training when applying for an H, P, or S endorsement for the first time.
If you do not qualify for an exemption, you must complete ELDT through a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before taking the applicable CDL skills or knowledge test.
Components of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
ELDT for Class A and Class B CDL applicants includes two components: theory training and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training. Applicants seeking Passenger (P) or School Bus (S) endorsements must also complete both components. Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement applicants complete theory training only.
Theory training covers the knowledge needed to operate a commercial vehicle safely and comply with federal regulations. Behind-the-wheel training provides hands-on experience on a controlled driving range and public roads.
All required training must be completed through a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
ELDT Theory
ELDT theory is the knowledge-based portion of the training. Depending on the provider, it may be completed in a classroom, online, or through a combination of both.
What Is ELDT Theory?
ELDT theory covers the rules, responsibilities, and safety practices involved in operating a commercial motor vehicle. The specific curriculum depends on the CDL class or endorsement you are seeking.
After completing the required instruction, you must earn an overall score of at least 80% on the written or electronic theory assessment. The training provider then reports your successful completion to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
What Does the ELDT Theory Curriculum Cover?
FMCSA establishes the minimum curriculum requirements for each CDL class and endorsement. For Class A and Class B applicants, common topics include:
- Basic vehicle operation
- Vehicle inspection procedures
- Safe operating practices
- Shifting and backing techniques
- Speed and space management
- Hazard awareness and emergency maneuvers
- Hours-of-Service requirements
- Driver wellness and fatigue awareness
- Cargo securement
- Accident and emergency procedures
The curriculum is designed to give new commercial drivers the knowledge needed to operate safely and prepare for behind-the-wheel training.
I removed the suggestion that theory must be completed before behind-the-wheel training. FMCSA does not require the components to be completed in a specific order.
Where Can You Complete ELDT Theory Training?
ELDT theory training must be completed through a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR).
Depending on the provider, theory training may be offered:
- In a classroom
- Through an online learning platform
- Through a combination of online and classroom instruction
Regardless of the format, the provider must follow FMCSA curriculum requirements and report your successful completion to the Training Provider Registry. (eCFR)
How Many Hours of ELDT Theory Training Do You Need?
FMCSA does not require a minimum number of hours for ELDT theory training.
Instead, the training is competency-based. You must complete all required curriculum topics and earn an overall score of at least 80% on the written or electronic theory assessment.
Because there is no minimum time requirement, the length of theory training varies by course format, provider, and student.
ELDT Behind-the-Wheel Training
Behind-the-wheel (BTW) training is the practical portion of Entry-Level Driver Training. It gives you hands-on experience operating a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a qualified instructor. Training takes place on a controlled driving range and public roads.
What Is Behind-the-Wheel Training?
During behind-the-wheel training, you practice vehicle inspections, basic vehicle control, driving maneuvers, and safe operating procedures while in actual control of a commercial vehicle.
There is no written assessment for this portion of ELDT. Instead, your instructor evaluates your performance and determines when you have demonstrated proficiency in each required skill.
What Does ELDT Behind-the-Wheel Training Include?
ELDT behind-the-wheel training is divided into two parts:
Range Training
Range training takes place in a controlled area where you practice basic vehicle-control skills and driving maneuvers.
Depending on the CDL class or endorsement, training may include:
- Performing vehicle inspections
- Straight-line and offset backing
- Parallel parking
- Alley docking
- Coupling and uncoupling combination vehicles, when applicable
Public-Road Training
Public-road training gives you experience operating a commercial vehicle under an instructor’s supervision in real driving conditions.
Training may include:
- Starting, stopping, and steering safely
- Turning and changing lanes
- Shifting gears, when applicable
- Managing speed and following distance
- Driving in traffic
- Entering and exiting highways
- Crossing intersections and railroad tracks
- Recognizing and responding to road hazards
Your instructor must determine that you have demonstrated proficiency in the required behind-the-wheel skills before marking the training as complete.
How Many Hours of Behind-the-Wheel Training Do You Need?
FMCSA does not require a minimum number of hours for ELDT behind-the-wheel training. However, some states may require applicants to complete a minimum number of training hours or meet additional state-specific requirements before receiving a CDL.
Under the federal ELDT requirements, behind-the-wheel training is competency-based. You must continue training until your instructor determines that you have demonstrated proficiency in all required range and public-road skills.
The amount of training therefore varies by student. Some drivers may demonstrate proficiency more quickly, while others may need additional practice. Check with your state driver licensing agency or training provider to determine whether additional state requirements apply.
Once you complete the required training, your registered training provider submits your completion record to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Your state licensing agency verifies the record before allowing you to take the applicable CDL skills test.
How to Complete ELDT Training (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to complete the federal ELDT requirements before taking the applicable CDL skills or knowledge test.
Step 1: Register With an ELDT Training Provider
Choose a training provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). Only registered providers can deliver ELDT and submit training completion records to FMCSA.
Before enrolling, confirm that the provider offers the training required for your Class A CDL, Class B CDL, CDL upgrade, or Hazardous Materials (H), Passenger (P), or School Bus (S) endorsement.
Step 2: Complete ELDT Theory Training
Complete the required theory curriculum online, in a classroom, or through a combination of both.
Depending on the CDL or endorsement, theory training may cover:
- Vehicle inspections
- Safe driving practices
- Hours-of-Service rules
- Vehicle systems and controls
- Hazard awareness
- Emergency procedures
- Federal safety regulations
Step 3: Pass the ELDT Theory Assessment
After completing the curriculum, you must earn an overall score of at least 80% on the written or electronic theory assessment. If you do not earn the required score, you must receive additional instruction before being reassessed.
Step 4: Complete Behind-the-Wheel Training, If Required
Class A, Class B, Passenger, and School Bus applicants must also complete behind-the-wheel training on a controlled range and public roads. Hazardous Materials endorsement applicants complete theory training only.
FMCSA does not require theory and behind-the-wheel training to be completed in a specific order. During behind-the-wheel training, your instructor evaluates your performance and determines when you have demonstrated proficiency in all required skills.
Step 5: Confirm Your Training Record
After you complete each required portion of ELDT, the training provider submits your completion record to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Your state licensing agency verifies the record before allowing you to take the applicable CDL skills test or Hazardous Materials knowledge test.
Who Can Provide Entry-Level Driver Training?
Entry-Level Driver Training can only be provided by a training provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). Before enrolling, confirm that the provider appears in the registry and offers the training required for your CDL class or endorsement.
Organizations and individuals that may register as ELDT providers include:
- Commercial truck driving schools
- Community colleges and vocational schools
- Motor carriers that train their own drivers
- State and local government agencies
- School districts
- Joint labor-management training programs
- Owner-operators
- Individual instructors operating as training providers
- Other organizations that meet federal and state requirements
To remain listed in the TPR, providers must:
- Follow the applicable FMCSA curriculum
- Use qualified instructors
- Provide appropriate facilities, vehicles, and equipment
- Meet applicable federal, state, and local requirements
- Maintain required training records
- Submit each driver’s training completion record to the TPR
Training providers self-certify that they meet these requirements. Only a provider listed in the TPR can certify that you successfully completed the required ELDT.
ELDT Training: Preparing for the Next Step
Entry-Level Driver Training establishes the minimum knowledge and skills certain applicants must demonstrate before taking the applicable CDL skills or knowledge test.
Understanding whether ELDT applies to you, choosing a registered training provider, and completing the required theory and, when applicable, behind-the-wheel training can help you avoid delays in the CDL licensing process.
After your provider submits your completion record to the Training Provider Registry, your state licensing agency can verify the training before administering the applicable test.
FAQs About ELDT Training
How Much Does ELDT Training Cost?
There is no standard federal price for ELDT training. Costs vary based on the training provider, location, CDL class or endorsement, and whether theory and behind-the-wheel training are purchased together or separately. FMCSA establishes the training requirements but does not set a national tuition rate.
Is There a Minimum Number of Hours for ELDT Training?
FMCSA does not require a minimum number of hours for theory or behind-the-wheel training. Instead, ELDT is competency-based.
You must complete the required theory curriculum and earn an overall score of at least 80% on the assessment. For behind-the-wheel training, your instructor must determine that you have demonstrated proficiency in all required skills.
Some states may require a minimum number of training hours or impose other requirements beyond the federal ELDT standards.
Do Theory and Behind-the-Wheel Training Need to Be Completed at the Same School?
No. You may complete theory and behind-the-wheel training with different providers, as long as both are listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
However, the range and public-road portions of behind-the-wheel training must be completed through the same training provider. Each provider is responsible for reporting the portion of training you completed.
How Long Does ELDT Training Take?
There is no standard timeline for completing ELDT. The length of training depends on the provider, course format, your schedule, and how long it takes you to meet the applicable requirements.
Class A, Class B, Passenger, and School Bus applicants must complete theory and behind-the-wheel training. Hazardous Materials endorsement applicants complete theory training only.
Do You Need ELDT Before Taking the CDL Permit Test?
Federal regulations do not require you to complete ELDT before taking the knowledge test for a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
However, required ELDT must be completed before you take the applicable Class A or Class B CDL skills test. Passenger and School Bus applicants must complete ELDT before the applicable endorsement skills test, while first-time Hazardous Materials applicants must complete theory training before taking the HazMat knowledge test.
Some states may impose additional requirements before issuing a permit or CDL.
Does ELDT Training Expire?
The federal ELDT regulations do not establish an expiration date for a completed training record after it has been reported to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
However, related credentials, such as your Commercial Learner’s Permit, may expire. You must still meet your state’s current testing and licensing requirements.
Do You Need to Redo ELDT If You Move to Another State?
Generally, no. ELDT completion is reported to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry, allowing state driver licensing agencies to verify your training electronically.
However, states may impose training or licensing requirements beyond the federal ELDT standards. Check with the licensing agency in your new state to determine whether any additional requirements apply.
