Do You Need ELDT for a Passenger Endorsement? (2026 Rules)
By Rish P · November 1, 2026
Yes. If you are applying for a passenger (P) endorsement for the first time on or after February 7, 2022, federal rules require you to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), both theory and behind-the-wheel, with a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry before taking the skills test.
What do the ELDT rules say about the passenger endorsement?
ELDT is set out in 49 CFR Part 380, Subpart F. It applies to anyone who is applying for:
- A Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
- An upgrade from Class B to Class A
- A school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time
The passenger endorsement is on that list. Holding a CDL already does not exempt you. If you have a Class A or B CDL and want to add a P endorsement for the first time, ELDT applies to that endorsement.
What does passenger ELDT include?
Passenger ELDT has two parts:
- Theory: classroom-style instruction on the passenger curriculum. This can be done online.
- Behind-the-wheel (BTW): hands-on training in a passenger vehicle, covering both range and public road.
This is different from the Hazmat endorsement, which is theory only. See Do You Need ELDT for a Hazmat Endorsement? for that comparison.
The training provider must be listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR). The provider reports your completion to the registry, and your state licensing agency checks it before it lets you test.
Who does not need ELDT for a passenger endorsement?
You are generally not required to take ELDT if one of these applies:
- You got your P endorsement before February 7, 2022.
- You are renewing or transferring a P endorsement you already hold.
- You got a commercial learner's permit (CLP) before February 7, 2022 and got your CDL before that permit expired.
Federal rules also recognize a few narrow exceptions, such as some military and other special-situation drivers. Those depend partly on state waivers and procedures, so check with your state driver licensing agency before you assume you qualify.
When do you have to finish ELDT?
You must finish the required training before you take the skills test for the endorsement. The passenger knowledge test is a separate step. Our CDL passenger endorsement practice test guide covers what that test looks like.
A common order looks like this:
- Get or hold a CLP, and pass the passenger knowledge test.
- Complete passenger ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel training with registered providers.
- Wait for the provider to report your completion to the TPR.
- Take the passenger skills test in a passenger vehicle.
Exact scheduling steps vary by state, so confirm them with your licensing agency. For more on the road test itself, see The CDL Skills Test Explained.
Can you take passenger ELDT theory online?
Yes. Federal rules do not require the theory portion to be taught in a classroom, as long as the provider is on the TPR and covers the required curriculum. If you want to check how online providers fit the rules, read Is Online ELDT Theory Training Legitimate?.
The behind-the-wheel portion cannot be done online. You will need a registered provider with a passenger vehicle and a qualified instructor for that part.
What happens if you skip ELDT?
If your state sees no ELDT completion on the TPR for your first-time P endorsement, it should not let you take the skills test for it. Completing the training with a registered provider is what puts your record in the system.
How can you complete the passenger theory with RoadCert?
RoadCert sells an online Passenger (P) endorsement ELDT theory course for $18.99. It is 100% online and self-paced, and works on a phone or a computer. You get access right after payment, and an email to set up your account.
RoadCert is listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry and reports your completion to the registry for you. The course covers theory only, so you will still need to complete behind-the-wheel training with a registered provider. You can start on the Passenger ELDT course page. If you need help, email support@useroadcert.com.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need ELDT training for a passenger endorsement?
Yes, if you are applying for a P endorsement for the first time on or after February 7, 2022. You must complete theory and behind-the-wheel training with a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry.
Do I need ELDT to renew my passenger endorsement?
No. ELDT applies to first-time applicants, not to renewals or transfers of an endorsement you already hold.
Is passenger ELDT theory only, like Hazmat?
No. Passenger ELDT has both a theory portion and a behind-the-wheel portion. Only the Hazmat endorsement is theory only.
Can I take the passenger ELDT theory online?
Yes, the theory portion can be completed online with a provider listed on the Training Provider Registry. The behind-the-wheel portion must be done in person in a passenger vehicle.
I already have a CDL. Do I still need ELDT to add a P endorsement?
Yes, if it is your first P endorsement and you are not covered by an exemption, such as having held it before February 7, 2022. Having a CDL alone does not exempt you.
Ready to knock out your ELDT theory?
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Related guides
- CDL Passenger Endorsement Practice Test 2026: What to Expect
The passenger (P) endorsement test covers bus safety, loading, and emergencies. Here is what it covers, the ELDT requirement, and sample questions with answers.
- Where to Take ELDT Theory Training Online (2026 Guide)
You can take ELDT theory online from any provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry. Here is what to look for and how to check a provider before you pay.
- What Is ELDT and Do You Need It to Get a CDL? (2026 Guide)
ELDT is the federal Entry-Level Driver Training rule. Find out who needs it for a CDL, who is exempt, what it covers, and where the theory part fits in.