Entry-Level
Driver Training (ELDT)
Regulated by DOT and FMCSA
About the ELDT Regulations
FMCSA’s Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations set the baseline for training requirements for entry-level drivers.
This applies to those seeking to:
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Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time;
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Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL; or
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Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.
The ELDT regulations are not retroactive; individuals who were issued a CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement prior to February 7, 2022 are not required to complete training for the respective CDL or endorsement.
*FMCSA 2022, FMCSA website, accessed 20 June 2022, <https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov>
Commercial Driver License Endorsements
An Endorsement is a special authorization, which permits a driver to drive certain types of vehicles, to transport certain types of property, or a certain number of passengers. The following endorsements can be placed on Class A, B, or C commercial driver licenses.
Hazardous Materials (H) – If the CMV transports hazardous materials, it is required to be placarded under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act
Cargo Tanker (N) – If the CMV is designed to transport, as its primary cargo, any liquid or gaseous material with a tank permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle when said tank is designed to carry 1,000 gallons or more.
Passenger (P) – If CMV designed to transport more than 15 passengers including the driver. Capacity determined by manufacturer’s original design, or the legally modified design, whichever is greater.
School Bus (S) – If vehicle used as a school bus (designed to pick up and discharge children on public roadways to transport them to and from school/ school related activities). Those who drive students on activity trips using a school bus need the ‘S’. Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act (MCSIA), passed in 1999, MCSIA requirement: the representative vehicle for the school bus test requires a school bus with a capacity for at least 16 passengers. School Bus Mechanics who do not transport students do not need the ‘S’ endorsement, but they must have the ‘P’ endorsement and a class B license.
Multiple-Trailer (T) – Class A only: for CMV authorized to pull more than one trailer. Required for double or triple trailers.
Haz Mat & Tanker (X) – To operate a tanker transporting hazardous materials.
* Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security,
TN.gov website, accessed 20 June 2022, <https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/commercial-driver-license.html>
We Strive For Your Success!!
Steps to obtain a CDL Permit
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Get a DOT medical card (unless exempt)
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Go to the DMV with your required documents
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Pass the General Knowledge test and any other tests required for your endorsements
Our Training Program
Our training program is designed to give you the knowledge required to drive a commercial vehicle.
There are 3 parts to the class:
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Theory: Book work providing knowledge and understanding of the basics of holding a CDL license and about being safe in a CDL vehicle.
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Behind-the-wheel (Range) Training: Teaches driving exercises related to basic vehicle control skills and mastery of basic control maneuvers.
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Behind-the-wheel (Public Road) Training: Teaches proficiency in the ability to recognize potential dangers, operating a CMV safely at night and in extreme conditions, and knowing the causes of skidding and jackkniffing and how to avoid and recover from them.
We will teach you how to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection of your commercial motor vehicle in order for that vehicle to be safe for you and others on the road.