Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) for Class B to A
There are specified minimum training standards from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for individuals upgrading their Class B commercial driver's license (CDL-B) to a Class A commercial driver's license (CDL-A). Aspiring individuals are required to complete the entry-level driver training (ELDT) requirements. The course of switching from Class B to Class A CDL course was formulated in alliance with an accredited training provider listed on the FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR).
This specific CDL training course is created for commercial motor vehicle drivers who hold a Class B CDL and aspire to upgrade to a Class A CDL. The Class A CDL allows the driver to operate heavier vehicles with a combination of truck and trailer. Therefore, Class B CDL authorizes the driver in operating straight heavy trucks.
All around this online ELDT theory course, you will grab the necessary knowledge for meeting all the theory requirements as listed in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 49 CFR Part 380, special training Requirements. The sections include basic operation, safe operating procedures, advanced operating practices, vehicle systems, and reporting malfunction with non-driving activities.
After completion of this course, the record of completion is uploaded to the U.S Department of Transportation (DOT) TPR. Therefore, you can apply for the CDL test after completing other requirements of federal training like behind-the-wheel training. The drivers who are successful in taking the CDL test are issued a state CDL and simultaneously eligible to be hired by the companies that operate Class A trucks in the commercial trucking industry.
Features of this course
- Basic Operation: It imparts the interaction between driver-trainees and the commercial motor vehicle (CMV), the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), introduction to the basic CMV instruments and controls, basic operating characteristics of a CMV, vehicle inspections, controlling the motion CMVs in tough road and traffic conditions, shifting and backing techniques, coupling, and uncoupling CMVs.
- Safe Operating Procedures: Imparts teachings to the driver-trainees on the practices which are required for the safer operation of the combination vehicle on a highway in various road, weather, and traffic conditions.
- Advanced Operating Practices: Teaches the drivers- trainees regarding the advanced skills which are necessary for recognizing the potential hazards and handling the CMV when encountered with a hazard.
- Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions: Teaches the driver-trainees regarding the vehicle and its systems and subsystems, vehicle inspections, operation, and maintenance, and impacts of factors regarding highway safety and operational efficiency.
- Non-Driving Activities: Teaches the driver-trainees regarding the activities which do not include operating the CMV, like cargo handling, environmental issues, driving hours of service, post-crash procedures, drugs and alcohol, and planning of trips.
Benefits of this course
Complies with the ELDT requirements for obtaining the Class A CDL for individuals who are successful in obtaining a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) after February 7, 2022.
Supports in the preparation of students for taking the state-administered CDL skills test.
Facilitates the driver in operating specialized CMVs upon the issue of the CDL.
After completion of the course, the results are submitted to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
The enrolled students are invited to attend the exclusive annual virtual National Apprentice Week Events, which are featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions.
Additional Details
Once, you enrolled in an ELDT course, you will be allowed to access the following free and optional CDL permit Prep Courses:
CDL Permit Prep: Air Brakes
CDL Permit Prep: Combination Vehicles
CDL Permit Prep: Hazardous Materials
CDL Permit Preps: Doubles and Triples
CDL Permit Prep: Tankers
CDL Permit Prep: General Knowledge
The prep courses for the requisite CDL written exams are taken through the local DMV which are based on the CDL classes chosen and the requirements of the state. Every state has different requirements for the CDL class A, B, or hazardous materials, therefore obtaining the manual for the specific area is required. These can be obtained online or a booklet can be picked from the local DMV.
Syllabus of the course
Basic Operation
Orientation
Control Systems/ Dashboard
Pre and Post trip inspections
Basic Control
Shifting/ Operating transmissions
Safe Operating Procedures
Visual Search
Communication
Distracted Driving
Speed Management
Space Management
Night Operation
Extreme Driving Conditions
Advanced Operating Practices
Hazard Perception
Skid Control/ Recovery, Jackknifing and other Emergencies
Railroad- Highway Grade Crossings
Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
Identification and diagnosis of Malfunctions
Roadside Inspections
Maintenance
Non- Driving Activities
Hours of Service Requirements
Fatigue and Wellness Awareness








