Entry-Level Driver Training
J. J. Keller’s online ELDT courses will help you exceed the FMCSA’s mandated theory instruction requirements. These interactive, expert-backed programs are designed to be used in tandem with our student and trainer manuals as part of a thorough program.
START TRAINING FOR FREEIn early 2022, FMCSA introduced new Entry-Level Driver Training regulations that set the baseline for training requirements for entry-level drivers. This applies to those seeking to obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL, or obtain a school bus endorsement, passenger endorsement, or hazardous materials endorsement for the first time.
The following online, e-learning curriculums are intended for drivers who are applying for an initial Class A or Class B commercial driver's license (CDL) or drivers upgrading their current CDL from Class B to Class A.
Entry-Level Driver Training Curriculums
The following theory instruction courses are included in the ELDT CDL A curriculum:
Basic Operation
- Orientation
- Control Systems/Dashboard
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip Engine
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip In-Vehicle
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip Walk-Around
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip Lights
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip Brake Systems
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: On-the Road Inspection
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Post-Trip Inspection
- Basic Controls
- Shifting/Operating Transmissions
- Backing and Docking
- Coupling Trailers
- Uncoupling Trailers
Safe Operating Procedures
Advanced Operating Practices
- Hazard Perception
- Skid Control: Driving Emergencies
- Skid Control: Skid Control and Prevention
- Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings
Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunction
- Identifying Engine Compartment Defects
- Identifying Frame, Axle, and Suspension Defects
- Identifying Wheel and Tire Defects
- Identifying Brake Defects
- Identifying Steering and Coupling Defects
- Identifying Drive Train Defects
Non-Driving Activities
- Handling and Documenting Cargo
- Environmental Compliance Issues
- Hours of Service Requirements: Working Time
- Hours of Service Requirements: Short-Haul Rules
- Hours of Service Requirements: Record of Duty Status
- Fatigue and Wellness Awareness
- Post-Crash Procedures
- External Communications
- Whistleblower/Coercion
- Trip Planning
- Drugs/Alcohol
- Medical Requirements
The following theory instruction courses are included in the ELDT CDL B curriculum:
Basic Operation
- Orientation
- Control Systems/Dashboard
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip Engine
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip In-Vehicle
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip Walk-Around
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip Lights
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Pre-Trip Brake Systems
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: On-the Road Inspection
- Pre-and Post-Trip Inspections: Post-Trip Inspection
- Basic Controls
- Shifting/Operating Transmissions
- Backing and Docking
Safe Operating Procedures
Advanced Operating Practices
- Hazard Perception
- Skid Control: Driving Emergencies
- Skid Control: Skid Control and Prevention
- Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings
Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunction
- Identifying Engine Compartment Defects
- Identifying Frame, Axle, and Suspension Defects
- Identifying Wheel and Tire Defects
- Identifying Brake Defects
- Identifying Steering and Coupling Defects
- Identifying Drive Train Defects
Non-Driving Activities
- Handling and Documenting Cargo
- Environmental Compliance Issues
- Hours of Service Requirements: Working Time
- Hours of Service Requirements: Short-Haul Rules
- Hours of Service Requirements: Record of Duty Status
- Fatigue and Wellness Awareness
- Post-Crash Procedures
- External Communications
- Whistleblower/Coercion
- Trip Planning
- Drugs/Alcohol
- Medical Requirements
Bonus Content
Disclaimer: These courses can be used to help satisfy the theory instruction portion of the entry-level driver training (ELDT) requirements that went into effect on February 7, 2022. To satisfy the theory instruction requirements, these courses must be assigned and administered by a school or other entity listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Training Provider Registry (TPR). To satisfy the complete ELDT training requirements, the school or entity conducting the training must provide the driver-trainee "behind-the-wheel" instruction in addition to theory instruction.
Additional Guidance: The 48 mandatory courses must be completed with scores of at least 80 percent in order to help satisfy the theory portion of the ELDT requirements. An additional seven non-mandatory courses are available to supplement the required training, (which include topics such as Human Trafficking, CSA, Special Rigs, travel in Canada, and Basic Business Practices). Training coordinators can assign the non-mandatory courses as they apply to each driver's needs.
Start training safer, smarter drivers today!
You can also download this training in SCORM 1.2 format for use on your own Learning Management System or company intranet!
Entry-Level Driver Training: Obtaining a CDL Manuals
These comprehensive manuals have been designed to help students and trainers comply with the FMCSA’s new theory instruction requirements.
Hazmat Endorsement Manuals
FOR THE STUDENT | FOR THE TRAINER
Passenger/School Bus Endorsement Manuals
FOR THE STUDENT | FOR THE TRAINER
Entry-Level Driver FAQs
When did the FMCSA's new entry-level driver training (ELDT) requirements go into effect?
Originally scheduled to go into effect February 7, 2020, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has delayed implementation until February 7, 2022. As of February 7, 2022, compliance with all aspects of the ELDT rule is required.
Who is subject to the ELDT requirements?
The requirements apply to anyone:
- Applying for his or her first commercial driver's license (CDL);
- Upgrading his or her current CDL (from Class B to Class A); or
- Obtaining a new passenger, school bus, or hazmat endorsement.
The rule does not apply to individuals who held a valid and current CDL and the appropriate endorsement(s) before February 7, 2022.
How does the new ELDT rule work with the current/old rule? What are the motor carrier’s responsibilities?
The old and new ELDT rules are two different requirements and should be addressed separately.
First, the current/old ELDT rule applies to drivers with less than one year of experience operating a commercial motor vehicle requiring a CDL in interstate commerce. It is the motor carrier’s responsibility to ensure that compliance is happening, and that proper documentation is on file for each driver. As of February 7, 2022, this rule will “sunset.” Carriers will no longer need to comply. Anyone who was subject to this rule prior to February 7, 2022, should have a copy of the training certificate in his or her DQ file.
As for the “new” ELDT rule, the motor carrier has no training or documentation responsibilities. The training (and certification of successful completion of training) must happen prior to an individual taking his or her CDL skills test.
What type of entry-level driver training is required?
The required training includes both theory and behind-the-wheel instruction.
The instruction must be provided by an entity listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR).
What are the specifics when it comes to theory instruction? Is there a certain amount of time mandated? Are there specific topics that must be addressed?
There isn’t a minimum number of hours that driver-trainees must spend on the theory instruction, but the instructor must cover all topics set forth in the curriculum.
The topics in the curriculum cover five areas of instruction:
- Basic operation,
- Safe operating procedures,
- Advanced operating procedures,
- Vehicle systems and reporting malfunctions, and
- Non-driving activities.
Driver-trainees must demonstrate their understanding of the material by achieving an overall minimum score of 80 percent on the theory assessment.
What are the requirements for behind-the-wheel training?
Behind-the-wheel training includes both range and public road instruction. This instruction must be conducted in the class of commercial motor vehicle that the trainee will be taking his or her CDL road test in when the time comes to complete the skills test.
Skills that must be covered during range instruction include vehicle inspection, various backing skills, and coupling and uncoupling.
Skills that must be covered during public road instruction include left and right turns, lane changes, curves at highway speeds, and entry and exit on interstate or controlled access highways.
Is there a certain amount of time mandated for behind-the-wheel training?
There isn’t a minimum number of hours that must be spent on behind-the-wheel training, but the instructor must cover all topics included in the curriculum.
The instructor must determine and document that each driver-trainee has demonstrated proficiency in all elements of the behind-the-wheel curriculum. The instructor must also document the total number of clock hours each driver-trainee spends to complete the behind-the-wheel curriculum.
Who can provide entry-level driver training?
Both the theory and behind-the-wheel training must be provided by an entity listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR). Most entities listed in the TPR will be truck driver training schools and motor carriers that have schools to train their own drivers.
How do I access the TPR?
The TPR is available via FMCSA’s website: https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/
Currently, schools, motor carriers, and other entities that intend to provide entry-level driver training are able to complete an application to be listed on the TPR. All applications must be filed electronically via FMCSA’s website. Paper applications will not be accepted.
Additional Entry-Level Driver Training Services from J. J. Keller
Trainer Certification Program certifies your trainers to train entry-level drivers according to the new rule using J. J. Keller curriculum. An expert J. J. Keller instructor will educate your trainers on how to effectively deliver both the theory and behind-the-wheel entry-level driver training. Plus, we'll provide full support to ensure your company is registered on the Training Provider Registry (TPR).
ELDT Training Program Assessment reviews your entry-level driver training program to verify that it meets or exceeds the FMCSA’s ELDT final rule. This includes an assessment of your facilities, vehicles, trainers, certifications, documentation and recordkeeping, training curriculum and more. We’ll also assist you with getting registered on the TPR.
ELDT Curriculum that provides you with our best-in-class ELDT program, including driver and trainer textbooks, instructions for range and road exercises, and proof of certification.
Learn More at JJKellerSafeandSmart.com/ELDT
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As an administrator, you’ll gain exclusive access to useful resources to help you reference word-for-word regulations, chat with industry peers, ask our experts specific compliance questions, and more.