Who needs entry-level driver training (ELDT)?
Since February 7, 2022, people getting a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrading from Class B to Class A, or getting a first-time hazmat, passenger or school bus endorsement generally must complete ELDT from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry before testing. Drivers who already held those credentials before that date are generally not affected. Confirm current rules and exceptions with FMCSA.
Entry-level driver training (ELDT) is the federal minimum training standard for new commercial drivers. It changed how people get a CDL: you can no longer just study the manual, practice with a friend and show up for the skills test. For carriers, it also changes how you think about hiring new drivers. Here is how it works.
What ELDT is
FMCSA's ELDT rules (49 CFR Part 380) took effect on February 7, 2022. They set a minimum training curriculum for certain CDL applicants, require that training come from a registered provider, and require the provider to report completion electronically to FMCSA before the driver can take the related test.
The rules set a floor. They do not replace state CDL testing, and they do not guarantee a carrier or insurer will consider the driver experienced.
Who needs ELDT
In general, you need ELDT if you are:
- Getting a Class A CDL for the first time
- Getting a Class B CDL for the first time
- Upgrading from Class B to Class A
- Getting a hazmat (H) endorsement for the first time
- Getting a passenger (P) or school bus (S) endorsement for the first time
Generally, you do not need ELDT if you already held the CDL or endorsement before February 7, 2022, or if you got a commercial learner's permit (CLP) before that date and got your CDL before the CLP expired. There are some other exceptions (for example, certain military drivers and drivers covered by specific waivers). Check the current list on the FMCSA website and with your state licensing agency.
The two parts of training
Theory (classroom or online)
Theory covers topics such as basic vehicle operation, safe driving, hours of service, cargo, trip planning, wellness and whistleblower rights. It can be delivered online or in a classroom. There is no minimum hour requirement, but the student must pass a final assessment with the score the rule requires (80 percent).
Behind-the-wheel (BTW)
BTW has two pieces:
- Range training on a closed course: pre-trip inspection, straight backing, offset backing, parallel parking, alley dock and coupling.
- Public road training: turns, lane changes, intersections, railroad crossings, highway driving, night operation where applicable, and more.
BTW also has no federal minimum hours. The instructor decides when the student shows proficiency. Hazmat endorsement training is theory only.
The Training Provider Registry
The Training Provider Registry (TPR) is FMCSA's online list of approved providers. Every provider that delivers ELDT must be listed there, from large schools to a single carrier training its own drivers.
How it works, step by step:
- Pick a provider listed on the TPR. Confirm it offers the specific class or endorsement you need.
- Get your CLP from your state (for Class A or B). Many states require you to hold it for a minimum period before the skills test.
- Complete theory and BTW training.
- The provider submits your completion to the TPR. The rule gives providers a short deadline (by the end of the second business day after completion).
- FMCSA passes the record to your state, which then lets you schedule the skills test (or the hazmat knowledge test).
- Take and pass the state test.
If your state will not schedule your test, the most common cause is a missing or delayed TPR record. Contact the provider first.
Checklist for new CDL candidates
- [ ] Confirm whether you need ELDT for your license class or endorsement
- [ ] Choose a provider listed on the Training Provider Registry
- [ ] Pass your DOT physical and get a medical certificate (see the medical card and DOT physical guide)
- [ ] Get your CLP and note how long you must hold it before testing
- [ ] Complete theory and pass the assessment
- [ ] Complete range and public road BTW training
- [ ] Confirm the provider submitted your record to the TPR
- [ ] Schedule and pass the skills test
- [ ] For hazmat, also complete the TSA security threat assessment
What carriers should know before hiring an ELDT graduate
A new CDL holder is legally able to drive, but insurance and real-world readiness are different questions.
- Insurance: many commercial auto insurers set experience and age minimums for drivers they will cover. A driver fresh out of school may not be acceptable, or may raise your premium. Ask your insurance agent before you make an offer.
- Finishing training: ELDT is a minimum. Many carriers add their own orientation, ride-along time or a mentoring period, especially for backing, docking and trip planning.
- Qualification still applies: a new driver needs a full DQ file, a pre-employment drug test and a Clearinghouse query just like anyone else. Use the driver qualification file checklist and the drug and alcohol testing program guide.
- Interstate age rule: drivers generally must be at least 21 to drive a CMV in interstate commerce. Confirm any current pilot programs with FMCSA.
If you are building toward hiring, our guide to hiring your first truck driver walks through the full process.
Hypothetical example: cost of getting a Class A
The numbers below are made up to show the parts of the total cost, not real prices.
| Item | Hypothetical cost |
|---|---|
| ELDT theory and BTW (school) | $5,000 |
| DOT physical | $100 |
| CLP and CDL state fees | $150 |
| Hazmat endorsement plus TSA check | $200 |
| Total | $5,450 |
Some carriers pay for training in exchange for a work commitment. Read those contracts carefully, especially repayment terms if you leave early, and talk to an attorney if anything is unclear.
How Texas Solutions can help
Texas Solutions is a dispatch service, not a broker or motor carrier. Once you have your CDL and your own authority or a lease, our dispatchers find and negotiate loads, handle broker packets and paperwork, and work 24/7, and you approve every load. Read about semi truck dispatch or talk to a dispatcher.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a minimum number of training hours under ELDT?
The federal rule does not set a minimum number of hours. Theory training ends with an assessment that requires a passing score, and behind-the-wheel training is complete when the instructor judges the driver proficient. Schools and states may set their own minimums.
Can I train my own drivers as a carrier?
A carrier can register as a training provider on the Training Provider Registry if it meets the instructor, curriculum and facility requirements. It must then follow the same rules as any provider, including submitting completion records.
Does ELDT apply to the hazmat endorsement?
Yes, for a first-time hazmat endorsement. That training is theory only, and it must be completed before the driver takes the hazmat knowledge test. The TSA security threat assessment is a separate requirement.
Do I need ELDT to drive a box truck or hotshot without a CDL?
No. ELDT is tied to getting a CDL or certain endorsements. Non-CDL drivers still need to meet other rules, such as the medical certificate for commercial vehicles over the weight threshold.
