Do you need ELDT for a Class A CDL?
Under 49 CFR Part 380, any driver applying for a first-time Class A CDL on or after February 7, 2022 must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory before taking the CDL skills test. This is a federal requirement. Your state DMV checks the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before scheduling your skills test. If your ELDT completion is not in the registry, you cannot test.
If you already held a Class A CDL before February 7, 2022, you are exempt. If you are upgrading from a Class B, you only need the shorter Class B to A upgrade theory, not the full Class A course.
What the course covers
The Class A ELDT curriculum is defined by 49 CFR Part 380 Appendix A. The ELDT.IO course covers all 30 required units:
- Basic vehicle control and shifting
- Backing and docking
- Pre-trip inspection
- Coupling and uncoupling
- Range and road driving skills
- Extreme driving conditions
- Hours of service regulations
- Driver wellness and fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Medical requirements for CDL holders
- Vehicle systems knowledge
- Cargo weight and balance
- Hazardous materials basics
- Accident procedures
- And all remaining Appendix A topics
How it works
- Enroll: Pay $15 and create your account.
- Complete the 30 units: Work through each unit at your own pace on any device. Each unit ends with a short checkpoint.
- Pass the final assessment: Required to receive your certificate.
- Get your certificate: Download your PDF certificate immediately.
- Reported to the FMCSA registry instantly: Your completion is transmitted to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry the moment you pass. No waiting period. Your state DMV can see it right away.
How long Class A ELDT theory takes
Federal rules set no minimum hour requirement for ELDT theory. The Class A course has 30 units. Most drivers work through it over a few days, fitting it around their schedule. You can stop and resume at any point. The course works on any phone, tablet, or computer.
What it costs: $15, and how that compares
ELDT.IO charges $15 for Class A theory. Here is how that compares to other registered providers (prices as of November 2026):
- ELDT.IO: $15
- DLA Academy: $20
- ELDT.com: $50–$125
- SaferTraining: $99
- OnlineCDLCourse.com: $125
- CDL Direct: $249
Every registered provider covers the same federally required topics, since the curriculum is set by 49 CFR Part 380. How it's taught is where we differ.
How to verify us on the FMCSA registry
ELDT providers are registered, not approved. The FMCSA maintains a Training Provider Registry of all registered providers. ELDT.IO is on that registry.
After theory: behind-the-wheel training and your skills test
ELDT.IO covers theory only. After finishing theory, you still need:
- Behind-the-wheel (BTW) training: Required for Class A under 49 CFR Part 380. Must be completed with a registered BTW provider in person. Some employers provide BTW as part of onboarding.
- CDL skills test: Pre-trip inspection, basic controls, and road test. Scheduled through your state DMV after BTW is complete.
Already have a Class B? Upgrade to Class A
If you hold a Class B CDL, you do not need the full Class A theory. The upgrade course covers only the Class A-specific topics and assumes your Class B knowledge. Class B to A upgrade theory ($15).
Adding hazmat to your Class A
The hazmat (H) endorsement has its own ELDT requirement under Appendix E. It is separate from Class A theory and can be taken at any time after you have your CDL. Hazmat ELDT training ($15).
Questions about Class A ELDT
How long does Class A ELDT training take online?
No federal minimum hours. 30 units. Most drivers finish over a few days at their own pace.
Can I get my Class A CDL online?
Theory yes, fully online here. BTW training and the CDL skills test must be done in person.
Can I do ELDT theory before my CLP?
Yes. ELDT theory must be completed before the skills test, not before the CLP. Many drivers do theory first.
Is the Class A ELDT test hard?
The assessments are based on the unit material. Work through each unit and the questions are straightforward.
What is the fastest way to get a Class A CDL?
Complete ELDT theory first (before your CLP), get your CLP, do BTW, take the skills test. ELDT.IO reports your completion instantly so there is no waiting on the theory side.
What is the cheapest way to get a Class A CDL?
The biggest cost is BTW training. For theory, ELDT.IO is $15, the lowest price of any registered provider.
Does a Class A ELDT completion expire?
No. The FMCSA registry record does not expire once reported.
Real numbers, not marketing copy
- 95.6% of certificates reach the FMCSA registry within 1 minute of finishing the course.
- 75.9% of Class A students pass their first unit quiz attempt, live data calculated from our actual enrolled students.
