Effective February 7, 2022, no Commercial Driver License (CDL) entry-level operator may take a CDL skills test to receive a CDL A, CDL B, Passenger (P) Endorsement, or School Bus (S) Endorsement unless the driver has successfully completed a mandatory theory (knowledge) and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training program by a registered CDL ELDT provider/trainer. Also, effective February 7, 2022, any individual seeking a Hazardous Material (H) Endorsement must complete the respective ELDT training prior to taking the Hazardous Material (H) Endorsement knowledge test.CLICK HERE for more information.
Who is required to complete Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) CDL ELDT requirement?
Effective February 7, 2022, ELDT requirements must be met by individuals who apply for:
- A Class A or Class B commercial driver’s license (CDL) for the first time
- An upgrade of an existing CDL to a higher class [Class C to B or A, Class B to A]
- A school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time
ELDT must be completed before an applicant can take the CDL skills exam.
Individuals applying for a hazardous materials (H) endorsement must complete ELDT prior to taking the endorsement knowledge exam.
The ELDT regulations and the Training Provider Registry are mandated under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21).
Applicants subject to ELDT can find training providers from the public list located on the Training Provider Registry (TPR) website.
Applicants may contact the training provider directly and secure their services outside of the Registry.
The FMCSA TPR will retain a record of which CDL applicants have completed the new training and certification process outlined in the ELDT regulations.
Who Is Exempt from ELDT?
ELDT requirements do not apply to current CDL holders unless they want to upgrade to a higher class or add a new endorsement.
ELDT requirements do not apply to individuals who obtained a commercial learner permit (CLP) prior to February 7, 2022 and obtain a CDL before their CLP expires.
CDL holders unless they want to upgrade to a higher class or add a new endorsement.
Any individual who meets one of the exceptions for taking a skills test in 49 CFR Part 383 is also exempt from the ELDT requirements.
ELDT is an FMCSA program and is not administered by the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT). For more information, please select one of the links below or call the FMCSA information line at 800-832-5660 or the FMCSA Delaware Field Office at 302-734-8173.
Entry-level driver training information
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
For the most up-to-date information, check the FMCSA website. The information contained on the Delaware DMV website is subject to change based on guidance from FMCSA or any amendment to the federal rules and regulations.
FMCSA Documents
Download the List of Registered Training Providers
Additional Entry-Level Driver Training FAQs
Resources for Training Providers
TPR Training Provider Factsheet
