Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Since February 7, 2022, new commercial drivers must complete federal Entry-Level Driver Training before taking certain CDL skills tests. The training has to come from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry, and the provider reports your completion directly to FMCSA.

• New truck drivers
• Bus drivers

Who needs ELDT

You need ELDT before your skills test or knowledge test (for some endorsements) if you’re getting:

• A Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
• An upgrade from Class B to Class A
• A passenger (P) or school bus (S) endorsement for the first time
• A hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time (theory training only)

Drivers who already held these credentials before the rule took effect generally don’t need it. Some exceptions exist, such as certain military drivers. Check with your state licensing agency.

What the training covers

Theory (classroom or online)

• Basic operation: vehicle controls, inspections, coupling and uncoupling
• Safe operating procedures: space and speed management, night driving, hazard perception, distracted driving and extreme conditions
• Advanced skills: skid control, emergency maneuvers, railroad crossings
• Vehicle systems and reporting malfunctions
• Non-driving activities: hours of service, cargo handling, fatigue, wellness, drug and alcohol rules, whistleblower rights and human trafficking awareness

You must score at least 80% on the theory assessment.

Behind-the-wheel (range and public road)

• Range: vehicle inspection, straight-line backing, offset and alley-dock backing, parking, coupling and uncoupling
• Public road: turns, lane changes, intersections, railroad crossings, highway merging, hazard awareness

There’s no federal minimum number of hours for behind-the-wheel training. The instructor must judge that you’re proficient. Good schools give plenty of real driving time.

Choosing a school

• Listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the class or endorsement you need
• Clear total cost, including testing fees, truck rental for the test and retests
• Real behind-the-wheel hours on public roads, not just range time
• Equipment similar to what you’ll drive (manual or automatic, air brakes)
• Pass rates and job placement you can verify
• If it’s company-paid training, the contract terms in writing

After you’re licensed

ELDT is the minimum. Many employers add their own finishing training with an experienced driver. Ask for it, especially before driving alone in mountains, winter weather or big cities. See Winter Trucking and Mountain Grades.

Last updated: October 1, 2026