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CDL Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) – Class B to Class A Upgrade

  • In accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and DOT Regulations 49 CFR Part 38
  • We are an FMCSA-approved training provider, meeting all federal requirements for entry-level driver training
  • Learn on your own schedule, from any location, on any device
  • Seamless, self-directed mobile training experience
  • Once the course is completed, your records will be sent directly to the FMCSA
  • Audio playback for hands-free learning
CEU:
1.2
Starting from
$129.99/Seat
12 Hour(s) Course
$129.99
$129.99
Bulk Buying
Employee
Per Seat
2-10
$128.69
11-20
$127.39
21-50
$126.09
51-100
$123.49
101-250
$120.89
Employee Per Seat
2-10 $128.69
11-20 $127.39
21-50 $126.09
51-100 $123.49
101-250 $120.89
Sarah Benson
Bus Driver
Great course! I appreciated the self-paced format and clear narration. No need for an instructor—the content was straightforward, and the quizzes kept me on track
Linda Roy
Municipal Bus Driver
I found the course very informative. It provided a clear path from Class B to Class A, and I could work through it at my own pace, which was a huge benefit.
Mike Lawrance
Delivery Operator
The combination of visuals and audio was really engaging. It covered everything I needed for my Class A upgrade, and I didn’t have to sit through a classroom session. It fit perfectly with my busy schedule, and I passed my CDL test without a hitch.
Brian Tyron
Utility Truck Driver
I really preferred the flexibility of this course. The content was detailed, and I could go back to review sections. Great prep for the real test.
Adam Timothy
Local Delivery Driver
I’ve been meaning to upgrade my CDL Class B to Class A for a while, and this course made it simple. Everything was well-explained. Great resource for anyone looking to upgrade!

Course Facts

What You Get
What You Get
Certificate of Completion
Training Duration
Training Duration
12 Hour(s)
Learning Type
Learning Type
100% online, available 24/7
Course Access Validity
Course Access Validity
3-month completion timeline, 1-year access to training materials.
Device Support
Device Support
Apple
Android
Windows
Web
Certificate Validity
Certificate Validity
48 months, before a refresher is required.
FMCSA Approved

Elevate your career in commercial driving with our New CDL Entry Level Driver Training (CLDT) Course: Class B to Class A Upgrade. This training is meant for professional holders of Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). It prepares you to gain confidence and safety skills to operate a Class A combination vehicle in accordance with FMCSA and DOT regulations (49 CFR Part 380).

This training will either assist you pursuing new job openings or if you wish to complete FMCSA prerequisites for retiring your CDL.

Why Choose Our CDL Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) – Class B to Class A Upgrade?

  • FMCSA Approved: ELDT Upgrade is fully in line with FMCSA regulations as of February 7, 2022 requiring training prior to testing for a Class A CDL upgrade.
  • Learn At Your Convenience?: Capture new concepts online at your own pace, later on the road apply them during guided practical lessons.
  • Supported Certification: You will not lose your CDL and this course does not expire if you train for the knowledge and skills test for Class A CDL.

What You Will Learn

  • Correct vehicle inspection practices and adherence to legal requirements.
  • Usage of logging devices and the understanding of hours-of-service regulations.
  • Recognizing hazards, responding to emergencies, and accident avoidance.
  • Coupling/uncoupling system and the use of relevant and appropriate equipment.
  • Maneuvering, shifting, docking, and backing techniques.

Who Needs This Course?

This course is important for:

CDL Class B Holders: Drivers who want to upgrade from to class A vehicles.

Fleet Operators: Those who wish to move their employees into more versatile or better-paid positions.

Logistics & Transport Professionals: Increasing their range of operations to long-haul or heavy freight driving.

The primary goal of the CDL ELDT Class B to Class A Upgrade training course aims at successfully completing the CDL Class A license training test. This training prepares drivers/operators of long combination vehicles as required by FMCSA and DOT regulations in 49 CFR Part 380.

Course Objectives – CDL Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) – Class B to Class A Upgrade

After completing the course, the learner will be able to:
  • Recognize combination vehicles and understand basic safety principles and legal obligations, including penalties for infringing FMCSA policies.
  • Recognize and correctly use the vehicle’s instruments and controls, including seatbelts and mirrors.
  • Conduct inspections before and after trips as well as during the trip to maintain compliance with regulations.
  • Show basic control of a vehicle, including turns, centering and moving in tight spaces.
  • Safely perform complex multi-speed dual range transmission shifting.
  • Safely reverse and dock combination vehicles using GOAL and spotter techniques.
  • Safely perform coupling and uncoupling of combination vehicle units.
  • Utilize safe driving techniques in relation to road conditions, weather, traffic circumstances, and proper outfitting of seat belts.
  • Anticipate and react to dangers in the driving environment with an emphasis on hazard and emergency readiness.
  • Understand the causes of skidding and jackknifed situations and know how to prevent and recover from these situations.
  • Follow the Hours-of-Service regulations for cargo-carrying vehicles and track driving hours according to FMCSA guidelines.

CDL Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) – Class B to Class A Upgrade Course Syllabus

This Class B to Class A Upgrade CDL Training online course consists of 22 lessons categorized under five modules. Students are required to take each lesson in sequential order as listed below.

Course Content
Lessons

CDL Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) – Class B to Class A Upgrade: Introduction

Module 1: Basic Operation of a Commercial Motor Vehicle


This module offers driver-trainees a foundational understanding of Class A Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs) and their operation. It focuses on familiarizing trainees with key CMV instruments, controls, and operational characteristics. Key topics covered include Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), vehicle inspections, and essential driving skills such as vehicle control, shifting, and backing techniques. The module also addresses important procedures like coupling and uncoupling, providing a comprehensive introduction to safe and effective CMV operation.

  • Lesson 1: Orientation
  • Lesson 2: Control Systems and Dashboard
  • Lesson 3: Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections
  • Lesson 4: Basic Operation
  • Lesson 5: Shifting or Operating Transmissions
  • Lesson 6: Backing and Docking
  • Lesson 7: Coupling and Uncoupling

Module 2: Safe Operating Procedures


This module will concentrate on the safe operation of combination vehicles in a variety of road, weather, and traffic conditions. Trainees will develop essential skills for navigating different driving environments while ensuring adherence to Federal regulations. A key focus will be on the correct use of seat belt assemblies, as required by 49 CFR Section 392.16 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. This regulation states that no driver may operate a commercial motor vehicle, nor may any motor carrier require or allow a driver to operate one, unless the driver is properly restrained by a seat belt assembly installed at the driver’s seat.

  • Lesson 8: Visual Search
  • Lesson 9: Communication
  • Lesson 10: Distracted Driving
  • Lesson 11: Speed Management
  • Lesson 12: Space Management
  • Lesson 13: Night Operation
  • Lesson 14: Extreme Driving Conditions

Module 3: Advanced Operating Practices


Building on your previous learning in Module 1 and 2, this module will focus on practical driving skills. You will learn how to anticipate and respond to potential hazards, and safely operate commercial vehicles in various driving situations.

  • Lesson 15: Hazard Perception
  • Lesson 16: Skid Control, Recovery, Jackknifing, and Other Emergencies
  • Lesson 17: Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings

Module 4: Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions


This module will provide you with a thorough understanding about combination vehicles, including their systems and how they work. You'll learn why vehicle inspections, operation, and maintenance are so important for safe and efficient driving.

  • Lesson 18: Identification and Diagnosis of Malfunctions
  • Lesson 19: Roadside Inspections
  • Lesson 20: Vehicle Maintenance

Module 5: Non-Driving Activities


This module will focus on essential non-driving activities for a CMV's safe and efficient operation.

  • Lesson 21: Hours of Service Requirements
  • Lesson 22: Fatigue and Wellness Awareness

Final Examination

Frequently Asked Questions

This course can take about 15 hours to complete; however it may take more or less depending upon an individual’s pace.
This course is important because it:
  • Prepares drivers for safe operation of a Class A commercial vehicle which minimizes the chances of accidents.
  • It helps meet FMCSA requirements which helps standardize practices across the board.
  • Improves the skill level of the driver through additional training offered on the operation of the vehicle, safety regulations, and maintenance of the vehicle.
  • Increases the job opportunities and income levels as a driver is able to operate a greater number of vehicles.
  • Assists in professional development and upward mobility within the commercial driving field.
The training course meets all FMCSA and DOT requirements as stated in 49 CFR Part 380.
The training certificate does not carry an expiration date however, holders of a CDL are subject to a standard license renewal practice which happens every five years except in Florida which mandates renewal every four years.
Yes, you must:
  • Be a minimum of 18 years (21 for interstate driving).
  • Possess a Class B CDL in your state of residence.
  • Pass a DOT physical exam and drug screening.
  • Comply with any additional requirements from your state or training organization.
Yes, this FMCSA-approved course is accepted everywhere in the country, except for Washington State where they require in-person training from a Washington-based provider for all CDL upgrades.
Your completion is reported to the FMCSA through the TPR (Training Provider Registry) after you complete the course. This report will also make you eligible to take your State's Class A knowledge test.

Not completely. In addition to this theory course, you are required to:

  • Pass a medical examination with a certified medical examiner.
  • Complete your State’s knowledge and skills test with a pre-trip inspection and a road test.
  • If applicable, undergo a background check as required by your state’s DMV policy.

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Online On-Demand
Online On-Demand

$129.99/Seat

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Virtual Instructor-Led
Virtual Instructor-Led

$299.00/Seat (minimum 10 seats)

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In-Person Group

$995.00/Seat (minimum 10 seats)

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