CDL Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) – Class A

In accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and DOT Regulations 49 CFR Part 380
Train at your convenience, across all devices
Convenient, on-the-go course designed for mobile users
Once the course is completed, your records will be sent directly to the FMCSA
Listen to the entire course read aloud

View Demo

CEU:
1.5

Starting from

$159.99/Seat

15 Hour(s) Course

$159.99

Bulk Buying

Employee

Per Seat

2-10

$158.39

11-20

$156.79

21-50

$155.19

51-100

$151.99

101-250

$148.79

Employee	Per Seat
2-10	$158.39
11-20	$156.79
21-50	$155.19
51-100	$151.99
101-250	$148.79

Enroll

David Lee

Truck Driver

I was pleasantly surprised by how interactive and engaging this online course was. The animations made the learning process enjoyable and effective. I felt well-prepared for my CDL exam and have already put my new knowledge to use on the road.

Michael Davis

Fleet Manager

As a fleet manager, I've seen the benefits of well-trained drivers firsthand. This online CDL training course has been invaluable for our new hires. We've noticed a significant improvement in our drivers' safety records since implementing this training.

Sam Johnson

Independent Truck Driver

Considering the quality of the content and the flexibility of the online format, this course is an excellent value for money deal. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to obtain their ELDT CDL Class A license.

Tony Pine

Student Driver

I was nervous about taking the CDL exam, but this online course gave me the confidence I needed. The practice tests were very helpful in identifying my weak areas. I passed my exam on the first try, thanks to this program.

Mark Smith

Long-Haul Truck Driver

As a long-haul driver, I need to be knowledgeable about a variety of subjects, from regulations to emergency procedures and especially hours of service restrictions. This ELDT online course covered everything I needed to know and more.

Course Facts

What You Get

Certificate of Completion

Click here to view a sample certificate

Training Duration

15 Hour(s)

Learning Type

100% online, available 24/7

Course Access Validity

3-month completion timeline, 1-year access to training materials.

Device Support

Certificate Validity

48 months, before a refresher is required.

This Commercial Driving License (CDL) Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) – Class A course is a comprehensive program designed to equip commercial drivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely drive long combination vehicles in line with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the DOT regulations in 49 CFR Part 380. Participants will learn about emergency protocols, route planning, and regulatory compliance specific to handling these types of vehicles. With engaging content and practical exercises, this training ensures drivers are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of maneuvering Class A vehicles while adhering to stringent safety standards and regulations.

The complete Class A CDL Training course encompasses the following.

Basic operation of a commercial motor vehicle.
Safe driving practices.
Vehicle inspection and maintenance.
Use of electronic logging devices and other technology.
Hours of service regulations and fatigue management.

This CDL Class A Training is for driver-trainees seeking a CDL Class A License for the first time to drive Class A vehicles in commerce. From February 2022, the FMCSA requires entry-level drivers to complete a training program by an approved trainer before taking the knowledge test to obtain the ELDT Class A CDL.

Class A vehicle drivers do not need to receive recurrent training as the ELDT Class A Training validity for the CDL does not expire. However, once an individual’s CDL expires, generally every five years, the driver must retake the CDL Class A license training for the new CDL. Some States may require more frequent retraining or security assessments based on shorter license cycles.

The core objective of the CDL ELDT Class A training course is to prepare you to complete your CDL Class A license training test successfully. This comprehensive training is designed to equip you with the expertise you need to maneuver long combination vehicles according to the regulations set by FMCSA and DOT in 49 CFR Part 380.

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

After completing the course, the learner will be able to:

Understand the components of a combination vehicle, key safety fundamentals, and regulatory requirements, including the consequences of non-compliance with FMCSA regulations.
Identify and use vehicle instruments, controls, and safety components, including proper use of safety belts and mirrors.
Perform pre-trip, post-trip, and en route inspections, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Demonstrate basic vehicle control, including executing turns, centering the vehicle, and maneuvering in restricted areas.
Proficiently execute shifting maneuvers, demonstrating safe and efficient operation of multi-speed dual range transmissions.
Safely back and dock combination vehicles, utilizing techniques such as "Get Out and Look" (GOAL) and spotter assistance.
Execute safe coupling and uncoupling procedures for combination vehicle units.
Apply safe driving practices under various road, weather, and traffic conditions, including effective use of seat belts.
Recognize and respond to potential hazards in the driving environment, emphasizing hazard recognition and emergency preparedness.
Identify causes of skidding and jackknifing and apply techniques for avoiding and recovering from these situations.
Ensure safe and efficient cargo handling, securement, and documentation, understanding the importance of cargo security.
Develop effective trip planning skills, including route selection, rest stop planning, and compliance with vehicle size and weight limitations.

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

This Class A CDL Training online course consists of 30 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 A: Introduction

Module 1: Basic Operation of a Commercial Motor Vehicle

This module will give driver-trainees a fundamental understanding of Class A Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV) and their operation. The focus will be on familiarizing trainees with the essential instruments, controls, and operating characteristics of CMV. Additionally, this module will cover essential topics such as Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), vehicle inspections, vehicle control, shifting and backing techniques, and coupling and uncoupling procedures.

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 focus on the safe operation of combination vehicles on highways under various roads, weather, and traffic conditions. Trainees will learn essential practices for navigating different driving environments and adhering to Federal regulations. A key component of this module will be instruction on the proper use of seat belt assemblies, as mandated by 49 CFR Section 392.16 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, which states, "No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle, that has a seat belt assembly installed at the driver's seat unless the seat belt assembly properly restrains the driver."

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

This module will build upon the foundational skills and knowledge acquired in Modules 1 and 2. Trainees will delve into advanced driving techniques essential for recognizing and effectively responding to potential hazards on the road. Drivers will also learn the skills required to handle CMVs in challenging and hazardous situations and ensure safe operation.

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 give driver-trainees a comprehensive understanding of combination vehicles, including their systems and subsystems. The goal is to equip trainees with the knowledge necessary to appreciate the importance of vehicle inspection, operation, and maintenance in ensuring highway safety and operational efficiency.

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: Handling and Documenting Cargo
Lesson 22: Environmental Compliance Issues
Lesson 23: Hours of Service Requirements
Lesson 24: Fatigue and Wellness Awareness
Lesson 25: Post-Crash Procedures
Lesson 26: External Communications
Lesson 27: Whistleblower and Coercion
Lesson 28: Trip Planning
Lesson 29: Drugs and Alcohol
Lesson 30: Medical Requirements

Final Examination

Frequently Asked Questions

All our courses are designed to take a specific amount of time. However, some students may get through this online training course much faster than others. This training course will take around 15 hours to complete.

The Class A CDL Training course holds significant importance for various reasons.

It equips drivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate large commercial vehicles safely, reducing the risk of accidents and improving road safety.
It ensures that drivers meet Federal requirements set by the FMCSA, which helps maintain consistent standards across the industry.
The course covers essential topics such as vehicle operation, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, which are fundamental for handling Class A vehicles effectively.
It helps drivers meet the industry’s standards for professionalism and competence, which can enhance their employability and career prospects.
It provides comprehensive training that builds drivers' confidence in their ability to manage complex driving situations and handle large vehicles safely.

The course meets and exceeds the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) compliance requirements and the United States Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) Regulations as defined in 49 CFR Part 380.

This CDL Class A license training certificate does not expire. However, to renew the Class A on your CDL, individuals must, by Federal law, go through the CDL renewal process which is generally every five years. However, some States may require more frequent assessments based on shorter CDL renewal cycles. For instance, in the State of Florida, CDL renewals must be done every four years.

Before beginning your training, you will need to meet specific prerequisites. These may include:

Being at least 18 (21 years old to drive across state lines).
Hold a valid driver’s license (not a commercial one) in the state where you plan to be trained.
Passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam and drug screen.
Meeting any additional requirements set by the training provider or state licensing agency.

Yes! As an FMCSA-approved training provider for ELDT online courses, our courses are accepted in every State except Washington. The State of Washington requires classroom instruction by a registered Washington Training Provider for all types of CDL certifications and endorsements. These requirements apply only to drivers who hold a Washington license or are obtaining a Washington CDL.

Once you complete this ELDT Class A training for your CDL, we will report your completion to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) through the Training Provider Registry (TPR). This ensures that your training records are updated and accessible to the FMCSA, verifying that you have met the necessary requirements.

Once this is done, you are eligible to take your State's Class A knowledge test. Successfully passing the knowledge test will qualify you to receive the Class A CDL.

No. You must pass a medical exam to ensure you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle. This test must be conducted by a professional listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

You must also complete this online CDL ELDT Class A theory course before taking the State Class A Knowledge Exam, which is typically administered at the state motor vehicle office. Upon finishing this Class A CDL training course, our system will automatically upload your ELDT records to the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Training Provider Registry (TPR). Once this is done, you are eligible to take your State's Class A knowledge test. Following the knowledge test, you must pass a skills test that includes both a pre-trip inspection and a driving test.

Obtaining a Class A CDL may require passing a Federally required background check. It is essential to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles or Motor Vehicles Division office if this is necessary.