Starting your career in trucking today means understanding and completing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). Since February 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has required that all new drivers complete ELDT before testing for their CDL or specific endorsements.

At Midwest Truck Driving School, we provide FMCSA-approved ELDT online courses that meet every requirement — so you can train on your schedule, stay compliant, and get on the road faster.


🚛 What Is ELDT Training?

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) ensures every new driver meets a national standard of safety, knowledge, and behind-the-wheel skills. Training must be completed with an FMCSA-registered provider, and once finished, your records are submitted directly to the Training Provider Registry (TPR), allowing you to schedule your CDL skills exam or endorsement test.

ELDT is broken into two main parts:

  1. Theory Instruction (Online or In-Class): Covers safety, regulations, vehicle operations, and more.

  2. Behind-the-Wheel Training: Hands-on driving under supervision (for Class A and Class B).


📋 Who Needs ELDT Training?

FMCSA requires ELDT for:

  • First-time Class A CDL applicants

  • First-time Class B CDL applicants

  • Drivers upgrading from Class B to Class A

  • Drivers seeking endorsements:

    • Hazmat (HME)

    • Tanker (N)

    • Passenger (P)

    • School Bus (S)


✅ ELDT Training Options at Midwest Truck Driving School

We make the process simple by offering FMCSA-approved online ELDT courses that meet all federal requirements. Each course is self-paced, 100% online, and designed to prepare you for success.

Core ELDT Theory Courses

Endorsement ELDT + Related Online Courses

Each of these courses is listed under our Online ELDT Training tab and registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR), so once completed, your record is automatically submitted to FMCSA.


📌 Key ELDT CDL Requirements

  1. FMCSA-Approved Training Provider – You must complete ELDT with a school listed on the TPR (like Midwest Truck Driving School).

  2. Theory Instruction – Online courses cover general knowledge, safe operations, and regulatory compliance.

  3. Behind-the-Wheel Training – For Class A and B, this is completed in-person at our training facility in Escanaba, MI.

  4. Endorsements Require ELDT – Hazmat, Tanker, Passenger, and School Bus all require separate ELDT courses.

  5. No Grandfathering – Anyone applying after February 7, 2022, must complete ELDT, no exceptions.


💡 Why Choose Midwest Truck Driving School for ELDT?

  • Over 27 years of CDL training experience

  • More than 20,000 drivers trained

  • FMCSA-registered and fully compliant provider

  • Job placement assistance and industry partnerships

  • Flexible online learning plus in-person training for Class A and B

  • Hundreds of 5-star reviews from past students


🚦 How to Succeed in ELDT Training

  1. Pick the Right Course: Start with the CDL class or endorsement you need.

  2. Study Actively: Use practice tests and review guides to reinforce theory.

  3. Ask Questions: Our instructors are available to help you through the process.

  4. Schedule Your Exam Quickly: Once your ELDT is logged, book your CDL skills or endorsement test.

  5. Plan Ahead for Endorsements: Adding Hazmat, Tanker, Passenger, or School Bus early gives you more career options.


🚀 Take the Next Step

Whether you’re applying for your Class A CDL, starting with a Class B CDL, or boosting your career with endorsements like Hazmat or Tanker, completing ELDT training is the first step.

👉 Explore our Online ELDT Courses today and get started on the path to your CDL. With Midwest Truck Driving School, you’ll get the training, support, and confidence to pass your exams and start driving with success.