Upcoming Entry-Level Driver Training Regulations
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations will set the minimum Federal requirements for training that new drivers must complete prior to being allowed to take certain Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) skills or knowledge tests. This will go into effect on February 7th, 2022.
The new ELDT mandate provides a minimum standard nationwide to ensure that new drivers entering the industry do so with the same education on competence and safety.
ELDT training will be comprised of classroom (theory) education and skills training. Students will learn approximately 30 subjects within the classroom portion of the training and must score a minimum of 80% on a theory assessment to meet minimum program requirements. To qualify for the CDL exam, students will receive Behind The Wheel (BTW) training, as well as have a trainer’s endorsement stating that they are proficient in the CDL skills curriculum.
Individuals who are applying to do the following are considered ‘entry-level’ drivers:
- Obtaining a Class A CDL or Class B CDL for the first time
- Upgrading an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL
- Obtaining a School Bus (S), Passenger (P), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement for the first time
These regulations are NOT retroactive, meaning that individuals who were issued their CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement prior to February 7th, 2022 are exempt/grand-fathered in. They will not need to complete this training for their respective CDL’s or endorsements.
Other exceptions include any individuals exempt from CDL requirements under 49 CFR part 383.
Individuals who are required to complete the ELDT training on or after February 7th, 2022 must use a registered training provider. These providers must be registered and approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Drivers subject to ELDT can find training providers from the public list located on the Training Provider Registry (TPR). Drivers will contact the training provider and secure their services outside of the Registry.
Once the ELDT mandate is effective, many businesses will not be allowed to train their own drivers. Instead, they will need to contract a driving school that is registered with the FMCSA.
