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Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Commercial Driver Training & Programs

Commercial vehicle training, which provides instruction in the operation of commercial vehicles. Check with individual schools to find out what types of job placement services might be available. These training programs provide the following services:

  • CDL A: A state-approved driver training program for entry-level tractor-trailer drivers. This course, which is consistent with national training guidelines, provides a combination of classroom, range, and on-the-road instruction.

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FAQs.

Where can I find the list of Vermont licensed CDL training school providers?

Visit our Commercial Driver Training page.

Who Is Exempt from ELDT?
  • Any individual that holds a Class A, Class, B, a Passenger (P) Endorsement, and/or School Bus (S) Endorsement, and/or a Hazardous Material (H) Endorsement prior to February 7, 2022.
  • Any individual that has a valid Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) issued prior to February 7, 2022, and obtains the CDL before the CLP expires.
  • Any individual that qualifies for a waiver under 49 CFR Section 383.
What is FMCSA’s CDL ELDT requirement?

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, any individual seeking a Hazardous Material (H) Endorsement must complete the respective ELDT training prior to taking the Hazardous Material (H) Endorsement knowledge test.

How can I confirm that my training provider is on the TPR?

For the most updated list of training providers on the TPR, visit the FMCSA’s ELDT website for details.

What training must an entry-level driver complete to obtain a Hazardous Material (H) endorsement?

To obtain a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement, the entry-level driver must complete mandatory theory (knowledge) training provided by a training provider listed on the TPR prior to taking the knowledge test for the Hazardous Material (H) endorsement. For more information regarding required training, see the FMCSA’s ELDT Curriculum Summary.

To provide ELDT, do I also need to be licensed as a driving school in Vermont?

If you are in Vermont AND you provide instruction for hire, you must be a licensed driving school. For more information about applying for a driving school license visit the Driver Training Instructors page.

Who can provide Entry-Level Driver Training?

Only training providers listed on the TPR can provide ELDT.

What is a training provider?

FMCSA defines that training providers can include, but are not limited to, training schools, educational institutions, rural electric cooperatives, motor carriers, state/local governments, school districts, joint labor-management programs, owner-operators, and individuals. These examples are not intended to be a finite list; FMCSA adds them to illustrate the range of entities that could potentially be eligible for listing on the TPR. In addition, FMCSA notes that eligible providers may provide training either on a "for-hire" or "not-for-hire" basis. Examples include motor carriers who provide ELDT at no cost to current or prospective employees, independent training schools charging tuition, and individuals who train family or friends.

What is the Training Provider Registry (TPR)?

The TPR is a system created and managed by FMCSA. The system will list all ELDT providers that are approved by FMCSA and allow ELDT providers to submit ELDT completion information to the TPR. The completion information maintained on the TPR serves as proof that the entry-level driver applicant has completed the required ELDT.