CDL / ELDT theory
CDL Online ELDT Class A Theory Training
The federally required theory portion for a first Class A commercial driver license.
Sold by GetDriversEd. We may earn a referral commission, at no extra cost to you.
What this course covers, and what it does not
- This is the theory portion of Entry-Level Driver Training. It is delivered online and completed at your own pace.
- You will also need behind-the-wheel training from a separate provider. Life Safety Driving School does not provide CDL behind-the-wheel instruction.
- The training provider for this course is GetDriversEd, not Life Safety Driving School.
Federal rules require that ELDT training come from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. You can look up any provider on the registry before you buy.
Check the FMCSA Training Provider RegistryWho this is for
Anyone applying for a first Class A CDL.
What the federal rule actually says
Since 7 February 2022, anyone getting a first commercial driver license has to complete Entry-Level Driver Training before taking the CDL skills test. The rule splits that training into two parts: theory and behind-the-wheel.
The theory portion is knowledge instruction, and it can be completed online. The behind-the-wheel portion has to happen in a real vehicle, on a range and on public roads, with an instructor present.
Theory and behind-the-wheel can come from different providers
FMCSA permits the two portions to come from separate registered providers. That is why a theory-only course is legitimate and why buying one is a normal thing to do.
It also means finishing this course does not, by itself, get you licensed. You still need behind-the-wheel training from a provider on the registry before you can sit the skills test.
The assessment
Theory instruction ends with an assessment. You need at least 80 percent to pass. Once you pass, the provider reports your completion to FMCSA electronically, and the record follows you to whichever state you license in.
What the course covers
- Vehicle systems, inspection and basic operation
- Shifting, backing and docking procedures
- Space management, speed management and hazard perception
- Hours-of-service rules and required documentation
- Cargo handling, weight distribution and securement
- Post-crash procedures, medical requirements and wellness
Questions about this course
Does finishing this course get me a CDL?
No. It covers the theory portion of Entry-Level Driver Training. You will also need behind-the-wheel training from a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before you can take the skills test.
Can theory and behind-the-wheel come from different providers?
Yes. FMCSA permits the two portions to come from separate registered providers, which is why a theory-only course is legitimate.
What score do I need on the theory assessment?
At least 80 percent. Once you pass, your completion is reported to FMCSA electronically.
Other CDL theory courses
Enroll in Class A Theory
Enrollment is handled by GetDriversEd, the training provider for this course. We may earn a referral commission if you enroll, at no extra cost to you.