Upgrading From a Class B to a Class A CDL: ELDT, Steps and Cost
Short answer: yes, you need ELDT to upgrade from Class B to Class A, even if you've held your Class B for years (49 CFR 383.71(e)). But you don't have to take the full Class A course. Since 2019, Class B holders can take a shorter Class B to Class A upgrade theory course that leaves out eight units of the full curriculum (FMCSA final rule, 84 FR 8029). You still need Class A behind-the-wheel training and the Class A skills test.
What's in the upgrade course, and what it leaves out
| Kept in the upgrade course | Left out of the upgrade course |
|---|---|
| Basic Operation (inspections, shifting, backing, coupling and uncoupling) | Handling and Documenting Cargo |
| Safe Operating Procedures, including speed and space management | Environmental Compliance Issues |
| Advanced Operating Practices (hazard perception, skids, jackknifing, railroad crossings) | Post-Crash Procedures |
| Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions | External Communications |
| Hours of Service | Whistleblower/Coercion |
| Fatigue and Wellness Awareness | Trip Planning |
| Drugs/Alcohol | |
| Medical Requirements |
Like every ELDT theory course, there's no minimum number of hours, and you need at least 80% on the final theory assessment. The upgrade course is optional: a Class B holder may take the full Class A course instead, and anyone without a Class B has to take the full one.
How to upgrade from Class B to Class A, step by step
- Take the Class B to Class A upgrade theory course from a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. It's online and self-paced, and the provider files your completion with the FMCSA.
- Get your Class A learner's permit. Your state will usually want the Combination Vehicles knowledge test (and Air Brakes, if your Class B has an air brake restriction). Check your state's CDL manual.
- Do Class A behind-the-wheel training with a registered provider, on a range and on public roads, in a Class A vehicle. The 2019 rule didn't change behind-the-wheel training. Both behind-the-wheel parts have to come from the same provider.
- Mind the one-year window. Theory and behind-the-wheel training must be finished within one year of whichever you finish first (49 CFR 380.603(c)(3)).
- Pass the Class A skills test in a Class A vehicle. Your state checks the Training Provider Registry for your ELDT before it lets you test.
- Turn in your Class B and get your Class A CDL.
Do I need ELDT to upgrade if I got my Class B before 2022?
Yes. The exemption for drivers licensed before February 7, 2022 covers the class you already held. Upgrading to Class A for the first time is new, so ELDT applies, no matter when you got your Class B or how long you've driven.
Can I do the whole upgrade online?
Only the theory. Behind-the-wheel training has to be in a real Class A vehicle with a registered provider, and the skills test is at your state's testing site.
Upgrade course or full Class A course?
- You hold a Class B CDL: take the upgrade course. It's shorter and it counts for the upgrade.
- You don't hold a Class B CDL: take the full CDL Class A theory course. The upgrade course is only for Class B holders.
- Adding Hazmat, Passenger or School Bus at the same time? Each of those has its own ELDT theory course. See which ELDT course you need.
How much does it cost to upgrade from Class B to Class A?
Our Class B to Class A upgrade theory course is $20. Behind-the-wheel training is priced separately by the school or carrier that gives it, and your state charges its own permit, test and license fees.
Start the upgrade course
Class B to Class A Upgrade ELDT theory, $20: online and self-paced, with an 80% final test, and filed to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for you when you pass. Questions? Email support@academyofdla.com.