ELDT for Veterans: Do You Need It?
If you drove trucks in the military, you may be able to get your CDL without Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). It depends on whether you qualify for the Military Skills Test Waiver. If you don't, you need ELDT like any other new driver. Here is how to tell.
Who does not need ELDT
The federal ELDT rule (49 CFR 380.603) does not apply to service members who get their CDL through the Military Skills Test Waiver and meet all of its conditions (49 CFR 383.77). In short, that means you:
- hold a valid driver's license;
- drove a military vehicle comparable to a commercial truck or bus, as part of your duties; and
- apply soon enough after that driving ended. FMCSA's waiver page says within the past year. FMCSA has extended this window by waiver before, so ask your state's licensing office for the current limit.
Your state's licensing office decides whether you qualify, and most states have their own waiver form. Ask them before you buy any training.
Who still needs ELDT
- Veterans whose military driving ended too long ago for the waiver.
- Service members who never drove a truck-class or bus-class vehicle in uniform.
- Anyone getting a CDL the standard way instead of through the waiver.
If that's you, you need the theory part of ELDT from a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before your skills test. Then you finish behind-the-wheel training with a registered provider. Not sure which course you need? Use our course finder or read who needs ELDT.
Theory courses we offer
- CDL Class A ELDT theory
- CDL Class B ELDT theory
- Class B to A upgrade ELDT theory
- Every course and practice test
All of our theory courses are online and self-paced, on any phone or computer. When you pass, we submit your completion to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for you.
Run by a veteran
DLA Academy's founder served in the Army Reserve as an 88M Motor Transport Operator and started driving trucks in uniform. Read the founder's story. Questions about your situation? Email support@academyofdla.com.