What does ELDT stand for?

ELDT stands for Entry-Level Driver Training. It is the federal training requirement in 49 CFR Part 380, Subpart F, that took effect on February 7, 2022.

Do I need ELDT if I already have a CDL?

Not for renewing or transferring a license you already hold. You do need it if you are upgrading from Class B to Class A, or adding a Passenger, School Bus or Hazmat endorsement for the first time.

Can I do all of ELDT online?

No. The theory portion can be taken online, but behind-the-wheel training for Class A, Class B and Passenger must be done in person with an instructor. Hazmat is theory only.

Does the ELDT provider have to be on the Training Provider Registry?

Yes. Only training from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry counts toward the requirement, and your state checks the registry before testing.

Does ELDT replace the CDL test?

No. ELDT is training you must finish first. You still have to pass your state's required knowledge and skills tests to get the CDL or endorsement.

What Is ELDT and Do You Need It for a CDL? (2026)

ELDT stands for Entry-Level Driver Training, a federal requirement that took effect February 7, 2022. You need it if you are getting a Class A or B CDL for the first time, upgrading from Class B to A, or adding a first-time Hazmat, Passenger, or School Bus endorsement.

What is ELDT?

ELDT is a set of federal training standards from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The rules are in 49 CFR Part 380, Subpart F.

Before ELDT, a new driver could study the state manual, pass the tests, and get a CDL without any formal training. Now, certain applicants must first complete training from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR).

ELDT does not replace the CDL tests. You still have to pass your state's knowledge and skills tests.

Do I need ELDT to get a CDL?

Yes, if you are doing any of the following:

Getting a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
Upgrading from Class B to Class A
Getting a Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazmat (H) endorsement for the first time

The requirement applies even if you already hold a CDL. For example, a Class A driver adding a Hazmat endorsement for the first time needs Hazmat ELDT theory. Our post on whether you need ELDT for a Hazmat endorsement covers that case in detail.

Who does not need ELDT?

ELDT does not apply to everyone. You generally do not need it if:

You are only renewing or transferring a license or endorsement you already hold
You got your CDL, or the endorsement, before February 7, 2022
You got a commercial learner's permit (CLP) before February 7, 2022 and get your CDL before that permit expires
You are adding an endorsement that has no ELDT requirement, such as Tanker or Doubles/Triples

There are also narrow exceptions for certain military, farm, firefighter and emergency-response drivers, and for some restricted CDLs. Check with your state licensing agency if one of these might fit you.

What does ELDT training include?

ELDT has two parts, depending on what you are getting:

Theory: classroom-style instruction on topics like safe operation, vehicle systems, hours of service, and driver responsibilities. Theory can be taken online.
Behind-the-wheel (BTW): hands-on training on a range and on public roads, done in person with an instructor.

Class A, Class B, Passenger and School Bus need both parts. The Hazmat endorsement needs theory only, with no behind-the-wheel portion.

The rule does not set a minimum number of training hours. Training is based on proficiency, so a provider has to confirm you can do what the curriculum requires.

Who can provide ELDT?

Only a provider listed on the TPR can provide training that counts. Once you finish, the provider reports your completion to the registry. Your state licensing agency checks the registry before it lets you take the skills test, or the Hazmat knowledge test for that endorsement.

If your provider is not on the TPR, your training will not count. Before paying anyone, search for them on the registry. For more on this, see Is Online ELDT Theory Training Legitimate?

How does ELDT fit into getting a CDL?

The usual order looks like this:

Get a CLP by passing your state's knowledge tests.
Complete ELDT theory and, if your license class needs it, behind-the-wheel training with TPR-listed providers.
Wait for your provider to report your completion to the TPR.
Take the CDL skills test. Here is what the CDL skills test involves.

For a first-time Hazmat endorsement, the theory must be complete before you take the Hazmat knowledge test. Exact steps and fees vary by state, so confirm the details with your state licensing agency.

How much does ELDT cost?

It depends on the provider and on which parts you need. Behind-the-wheel training is usually the larger cost because it requires a truck, an instructor and range time. Theory is often much cheaper, and some providers sell it separately online. Our average CDL training cost by state post shows how total costs vary.

Where can I take ELDT theory online?

RoadCert sells 100% online, self-paced ELDT theory courses that work on a phone or a computer. Each course is $18.99. RoadCert is listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry and reports your completion to the registry for you. You get access right after payment, with an email to set up your account.

Pick the course that matches your license:

These courses cover theory only. If you are going for a Class A, Class B or Passenger license, you will still need behind-the-wheel training from a TPR-listed provider. Questions about your account can go to support@useroadcert.com.

What Is ELDT and Do You Need It to Get a CDL? (2026 Guide)