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Understanding Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Requirements

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements are designed to create a more consistent level of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training standards on a much wider scale. Prior to February 7, 2022, each state had its own CDL requirements, and there was not a universal set of regulations for new truck drivers. The FMCSA has created the ELDT mandate for all training providers to follow to ensure that drivers meet the same safety standards, regardless of state, school or CDL training.

Which Drivers Must Follow the ELDT Requirements?

As of Monday, February 7, 2022, those who must meet the new ELDT requirements include:

  • Drivers seeking a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
  • Drivers upgrading an existing Class B CDL to Class A CDL
  • Drivers obtaining a first-time School Bus (S), Passenger (P) or Hazardous Materials (H) Endorsement

With the ELDT requirement changes, to either obtain a Class B or A CDL or upgrade from a Class B to a Class A:

  • Drivers will be required to obtain training (theory and behind-the-wheel) BEFORE taking the CDL knowledge test for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
  • Training must be provided by a company/organization or individual listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry, such as C1 Truck Driver Training
  • Training must be verified by a State Licensing Agency (verification will be submitted electronically by the training provider) before allowing the driver to proceed to the next step

ELDT Requirement Exemptions

The driver is not subject to the ELDT requirements if they were issued a CDL before February 7, 2022, or if they choose to re-obtain a CDL of the same class, even if the previously-issued CDL is not currently valid. It is also important to note these ELDT regulations are not retroactive. This means individuals who were issued a CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement prior to February 7, 2022, are not required to complete training for the respective CDL or endorsement.

Any individual who meets one of the exceptions for taking a skills test in 49 CFR Part 383 is also exempt from the ELDT requirements.

Need to Find a Training Provider?

C1 Truck Driver Training is listed on the official Training Provider Registry (TPR) and has a curriculum in place that meets all ELDT requirements as set forth by the FMCSA. This includes offering the mandatory theory (knowledge) and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training as part of our program. Visit our admissions page for more information on how to get started.

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Additionally, C1 Truck Driver Training offers an online version of the mandatory Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement theory training to both individuals and businesses. As part of the ELDT requirements, this training is now required prior to taking the knowledge test for the HazMat endorsement. Individual users can sign up and get started now, or if you’re a business seeking to offer this training to your drivers, you may complete the form on this page for special company pricing.