Class A CDL
First-time Class A applicants and drivers upgrading from Class B to Class A.
Theory + range + public roadENTRY-LEVEL DRIVER TRAINING • 2026 GUIDE
ELDT requirements, explained from start to finish
Learn who must complete ELDT, what theory and behind-the-wheel training include, how to verify a provider, and what comes next on the path to your CDL.
Feb. 7, 2022Federal ELDT rules took effect
80%+Minimum theory assessment score
TPRProvider must be federally registered
No federal hour minimumProficiency—not seat time—controls completion
START WITH THE BASICS
What is Entry-Level Driver Training?
ELDT is the federal training standard for people seeking certain commercial driver credentials for the first time. It defines required curriculum topics, provider qualifications, assessment standards, and electronic completion reporting.
ELDT does not replace your state commercial learner’s permit, DOT medical requirements, identity documents, or CDL skills test. Think of it as the required training layer within the larger licensing process.
Already held the credential before February 7, 2022?
You may fall outside the federal ELDT requirement for that credential, but state requirements can still apply. Confirm your individual record with your state licensing agency.
WHO NEEDS ELDT?
Choose the credential you are pursuing
The requirement depends on whether this is your first license, an upgrade, or a first-time endorsement.
Class B CDL
First-time Class B applicants preparing to operate qualifying straight vehicles.
Theory + range + public roadHazMat Endorsement
First-time hazardous materials endorsement applicants.
Theory requirementPassenger & School Bus
First-time passenger or school bus endorsement applicants.
Theory + applicable BTWTWO TRAINING COMPONENTS
Theory and behind-the-wheel are different
01
KNOWLEDGE
Theory instruction
May be completed online or in person through a registered provider. The curriculum covers the knowledge required for the credential.
- Basic operation and vehicle systems
- Safe operating procedures
- Advanced operating practices
- Vehicle inspections and maintenance
- Non-driving activities and regulations
Required assessment score80% or higher
02
SKILLS
Behind-the-wheel training
Completed in person with a registered provider for applicable licenses and endorsements. Training includes range and public-road skills.
- Vehicle controls and basic maneuvers
- Pre-trip and post-trip procedures
- Backing, coupling, and parking
- Traffic interaction and hazard response
- Road operation under instructor supervision
Proficiency standardNo federal minimum number of hours
YOUR ELDT ROADMAP
Six practical steps from decision to skills test
Confirm your credential
Choose Class A, Class B, an upgrade, or a covered endorsement.
Meet state prerequisites
Review age, CLP, medical, residency, and documentation requirements.
Verify the provider
Confirm the exact training location and curriculum on the federal TPR.
Complete instruction
Finish theory and, when applicable, range and public-road training.
Confirm reporting
Make sure successful completion appears in the federal system.
Complete state testing
Schedule and pass the remaining knowledge or CDL skills tests.
VERIFY BEFORE YOU PAY
How to evaluate an ELDT provider
Registry status is the starting point—not the only quality check. Ask for details in writing and compare the complete training experience.
Search the official TPR ↗01Provider and location appear in the FMCSA registry
02Curriculum matches your license or endorsement
03Tuition and third-party fees are clearly itemized
04Equipment type supports your licensing goal
05Range and road time expectations are explained
06Schedule, attendance, refund, and retest policies are written
07Completion reporting process and timing are clear
08Any job-placement claims can be independently verified
AVOID EXPENSIVE MISTAKES
Red flags to recognize early
A completion from an unregistered provider may not satisfy the federal requirement.
Ask whether permit, medical, drug-screen, testing, equipment, and retest fees are included.
No legitimate provider can guarantee a state testing outcome or employment placement.
Confirm how much instructor-supervised range and road opportunity the program actually provides.
COMMON QUESTIONS
ELDT frequently asked questions
Is ELDT the same as CDL school?+
No. ELDT is a federal minimum training standard. A CDL school may offer a broader program that includes permit preparation, ELDT-compliant training, additional practice, and skills-test preparation.
Can ELDT theory be completed online?+
Yes, when it is delivered by a provider registered for the relevant curriculum. Behind-the-wheel training cannot be completed online.
Does an ELDT certificate expire?+
The federal completion record itself is reported to the Training Provider Registry. State permits, medical certificates, testing windows, or local documents may have separate expiration rules.
Can theory and BTW come from different providers?+
Yes. Each provider must be registered for the curriculum component it delivers and must report its own successful completion.
Does FMCSA require a minimum number of training hours?+
Federal ELDT rules use proficiency standards rather than a universal hour minimum. A provider, school, employer, funding program, or state may impose additional hour requirements.
How do I know completion was reported?+
Ask the provider when it submits records and verify eligibility with the state testing agency before scheduling. Reporting errors should be corrected by the provider that submitted the record.
READY FOR THE NEXT STEP?
Build knowledge before training day.
Use free CDL practice categories to identify weak areas, then verify the provider and state requirements for your specific credential.