Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
A federal rule that took effect February 7, 2022. Most first-time CDL applicants must complete ELDT before taking a CDL knowledge test.
What Is ELDT?
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal training requirement administered by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It establishes minimum curriculum standards that training providers must meet before a student can take a CDL knowledge or skills test for the first time.
ELDT has two components:
- Theory training: classroom or online instruction covering regulations, vehicle systems, and safe operating procedures.
- Behind-the-wheel (BTW) training: hands-on driving instruction performed in an actual commercial vehicle.
Both must be completed by a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) before a state will allow you to test.
Who Needs ELDT?
ELDT applies to applicants obtaining a CDL or certain endorsements for the first time. It is required for:
- First-time Class A CDL applicants
- First-time Class B CDL applicants
- Class B to Class A upgrade applicants
- First-time Passenger (P) endorsement applicants
- First-time School Bus (S) endorsement applicants
- First-time HazMat (H) endorsement applicants
Drivers who already hold a CDL and are adding an endorsement they have never held before still need ELDT for that endorsement.
What ELDT Does Not Cover
ELDT is not required for:
- Renewing an existing CDL
- Transferring a CDL from another state
- Adding endorsements you have held before (e.g., reinstating an expired HazMat)
- Tank (T), Doubles/Triples (N), or Air Brakes (L) endorsements, which do not have an ELDT requirement
Is HazMat ELDT Different?
Yes. The HazMat endorsement requires ELDT theory training but does not require a behind-the-wheel component. It is theory-only.
HazMat also has an additional federal requirement separate from ELDT: a TSA security threat assessment, which includes a background check and fingerprinting. Both the ELDT theory training and TSA clearance must be completed before a state will issue the HazMat endorsement.
How the Process Works
- Find a registered provider. Look up providers on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Only providers listed there can satisfy the federal requirement.
- Complete theory training. Online or in-person instruction covering regulations, vehicle systems, and operational knowledge. Some providers let you complete this before scheduling behind-the-wheel time.
- Complete behind-the-wheel training. Hands-on time in a commercial vehicle. For Class A and B, this includes both range exercises and on-road driving. HazMat is theory-only.
- Provider submits your completion to FMCSA. Your training provider enters your completion record in the Training Provider Registry. This is what your state DMV checks.
- Test at your state DMV. Once your record is submitted, your state will allow you to take the CDL knowledge test. Skills testing follows after the knowledge test.
Where BeginCDL.com Fits In
BeginCDL.com is a knowledge study tool, not an FMCSA-registered training provider. Our practice questions, study modules, and topic reviews prepare you to pass the CDL written knowledge tests, but they do not satisfy the ELDT requirement on their own.
Think of it this way: ELDT covers the minimum standards a provider must teach. BeginCDL.com gives you a head start on the knowledge side at a fraction of the cost of full training, so you walk into ELDT and the knowledge exam already prepared.
Theory Assessment: Coming Soon. We are building a structured theory assessment tool that aligns with ELDT curriculum topics. It will be available as a standalone add-on for drivers completing ELDT theory training with a registered provider.