All individuals with less than one year of commercial driving experience are required to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). The motor carrier must provide and certify this training. It focuses on four essential topics that ensure drivers are qualified and safe to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).
Who Must Complete ELDT?
Drivers who must complete this training include:
- First-time applicants for a Class A or Class B CDL
- Drivers upgrading from Class B to Class A
- First-time applicants for a Hazardous Materials (H), Passenger (P), or School Bus (S) endorsement
This requirement applies unless the CDL or endorsement was granted before February 7, 2022 or the driver meets specific exemptions.
Why This Training Matters
- It builds a baseline of essential knowledge and skills for safe CMV operation.
- It ensures uniform training standards across carriers and training providers.
- It is a prerequisite for taking state CDL skills or knowledge tests.
Core Topics of ELDT
While the ELDT curriculum covers comprehensive content, all motor carriers must ensure training covers these four critical areas:
1. Driver Qualifications
- Medical certification
- Licensing requirements
- Disqualifications and responsibilities under FMCSA rules (Part 391)
2. Hours of Service (HOS)
- Regulations on maximum driving hours
- Required rest periods
- Duty status logging and fatigue countermeasures
3. Driver Wellness
- Health maintenance: diet, exercise, sleep
- Avoiding alcohol misuse
- Stress and fatigue awareness
4. Whistleblower Rights & Safety Culture
- Right to report unsafe practices without retaliation
- Employer accountability for safety concerns
Regulatory Backing & Training Provider Requirements
- 49 CFR Part 380 Subpart F details federal ELDT standards, effective February 7, 2022. It mandates theory and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training components.
- Training must be provided by entities listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR), ensuring they meet curriculum, instructor, and facility criteria.
Summary
ELDT is not optional—it is a federal requirement designed to elevate safety and competence across the commercial driving industry. Carriers must ensure that drivers complete training in the four key areas, receive certification, and that the instruction comes from qualified, registry-listed providers.
