Entry-level driver training (ELDT)

By the end of this topic you can

• You can tell whether you need ELDT for the license or endorsement you want.
• You can explain the difference between theory and behind-the-wheel training.
• You can check that a school is properly registered before you pay.
• You can explain how your training completion reaches your state DMV.

What you need to know and understand

• ELDT is required for a first Class A or Class B CDL, an upgrade to Class A or B, and a first P, S or H endorsement.
• Training must come from a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR).
• The theory part ends with an assessment, and you need an overall score of at least 80 percent.
• Behind-the-wheel training has range and public-road parts; federal rules set no minimum number of hours, the instructor signs you off when you show proficiency.
• Theory and behind-the-wheel normally must be finished within one year of starting the first part (H endorsement theory is an exception).
• People who already held the relevant CDL or endorsement before February 7, 2022 do not need ELDT for it.

Do you need it?

• Getting your first Class A or Class B CDL: yes.
• Upgrading from Class B to Class A: yes.
• Adding passenger (P), school bus (S) or hazmat (H) for the first time: yes, for that endorsement.
• Getting a Class C CDL with no P, S or H endorsement: no federal ELDT requirement.
• Adding T or N endorsements: no federal ELDT requirement.
• Some groups are exempt, such as certain military drivers and drivers covered by state farm or emergency waivers; check with your state DMV.

What the training covers

Theory covers subjects like basic operation, safe operating practices, vehicle systems, hours of service, cargo handling and non-driving duties. It can be taught in a classroom or online.

Behind-the-wheel training happens in a real commercial vehicle with a qualified instructor. The range part covers backing, coupling and other low-speed maneuvers. The public-road part covers real traffic, turns, lane changes, railroad crossings and more. Simulators cannot replace this training.

From training to test

1. Search the Training Provider Registry for a listed provider near you and confirm they offer the class or endorsement you need.
2. Complete the theory course and pass the theory assessment with at least 80 percent.
3. Complete behind-the-wheel training until your instructor confirms you are proficient.
4. The provider reports your completion to the Training Provider Registry, which passes it to your state.
5. Once your state has the record (and your CLP waiting period is over), book your skills test, or the H knowledge test for hazmat.

Common mistakes

• Paying a school that is not on the Training Provider Registry. Its training will not count.
• Assuming a set number of hours guarantees completion. You finish when you can show the skills.
• Booking a skills test before the provider has reported your completion.
• Thinking ELDT replaces the CDL tests. You still must pass your state's knowledge and skills tests.

Test yourself: Entry-level driver training (ELDT)

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.