ELDT Training Requirements – FMCSA Entry Level Driver Training Guide
Learn who must complete ELDT training, when it is required, and how CDL drivers can complete ELDT training online.
What Is ELDT Training?
ELDT stands for Entry-Level Driver Training.
It is a federal training requirement established by the FMCSA for drivers who are:
Obtaining a CDL for the first time
Upgrading their CDL license class
Applying for certain CDL endorsements
Drivers must complete ELDT training through an FMCSA-approved training provider listed in the Training Provider Registry (TPR) before they can take certain CDL knowledge or skills tests.
ELDT training ensures that drivers understand safety regulations, vehicle operation, and federal transportation rules.
Who Must Complete ELDT Training?
According to FMCSA regulations, ELDT training is required for drivers who are:
1. Obtaining a Class A CDL for the First Time
Drivers applying for a Class A CDL must complete both:
Behind-the-wheel training from an approved provider
2. Obtaining a Class B CDL for the First Time
Drivers applying for a Class B CDL must also complete ELDT training before taking the CDL skills test.
3. Upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A CDL
Drivers who already hold a Class B CDL and want to upgrade to a Class A CDL must complete ELDT training again.
4. Applying for Certain CDL Endorsements
ELDT training is also required when drivers apply for certain endorsements for the first time.
These include:
Before taking the endorsement test at the DMV, drivers must complete ELDT theory training through a registered provider.
Drivers Who Do NOT Need ELDT Training
Some drivers are exempt from ELDT requirements.
Drivers may not need ELDT if they:
Obtained their CDL before February 7, 2022
Held the endorsement before the ELDT rule went into effect
Are renewing an existing CDL endorsement without letting it expire
If a driver is adding a new endorsement for the first time, ELDT training will still be required.
What Is the FMCSA Training Provider Registry?
The FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) is a national database of training providers approved to offer ELDT courses.
Training providers listed in the registry must meet federal standards and report completed training records to the FMCSA.
When a driver completes ELDT training, the provider submits the completion record to the registry so the driver can proceed with CDL testing.
Can ELDT Training Be Completed Online?
Yes. Certain ELDT training components can be completed online.
For endorsements such as Passenger and School Bus, drivers need to complete the theory and BTW portion of ELDT training, which can often be completed through both BTW training at an approved school and theory through an online course from an approved school like DLA Academy. For Hazmat, you only need the theory training.
Online ELDT training allows drivers to:
Complete training faster
Study at their own pace
Prepare for CDL endorsement tests
Start ELDT Training Online
If you need ELDT training to obtain a CDL endorsement, completing your theory training online can be one of the fastest ways to meet FMCSA requirements.
DLA Academy provides online ELDT training designed for CDL drivers who need to complete their training quickly and prepare for CDL endorsement exams.