Truck Driver Training Questions
What is the Entry Level Driver Training Rule?
The Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule requires that anyone who wants to get a Class A or B , upgrade from a B to an A, or get a Hazmat Endorsement, must complete an approved truck driver training program.
Is the ELDT a State or Federal Rule?
ELDT is a federal rule contained in the regulations. A few states also have their own rules on CDL training, but the minimum requirement is to meet the federal ELDT standards for training.
Who does the rule apply to?
Anyone who wants to get a Class A or Class B CDL in any state must complete an approved ELDT program. Some CDL endorsements also require ELDT training.
What if I want to upgrade from a Class B CDL to a Class A CDL?
You must complete the ELDT program for an upgrade. The training requirements for an upgrade are somewhat reduced compared to the Class A training required.
How many hours are required for the ELDT?
There is no hourly requirement for ELDT. There are theory (knowledge) training requirements and behind the wheel (driving skill) proficiency requirements, but neither requires a specific amount of time. ProDriverU only covers the theory requirements for ELDT.
What are the theory topics that I have to learn for the ELDT?
There are about 30 topics that the federal rule requires you to take training on. These include topics such as shifting, night driving, hours of service, backing, etc. ProDriverU covers all required ELDT topics.
Will I be tested on the theory topics?
Yes. You must be tested on all ELDT topics. You must score at least an 80% on each topic. For example, if there are 10 questions on night driving, you must get 8 of the 10 correct. ProDriverU has test questions built into the training, so when you successfully complete a ProDriverU course, you will have met the 80% testing level.
What if I do not pass the theory tests?
At ProDriverU, we WANT you to succeed. So if you do not pass any tests the first time, you can continue to learn and take the tests until you obtain a score of 80%. There is no cost and no penalty. Just keep learning until you score 80% or more!
What is the difference between “theory” and “behind the wheel” training?
Theory training is like classroom training. It is to provide you with the knowledge you need to safely drive a truck. The behind the wheel, or driving skills training, is hands-on instruction in a vehicle to learn how to actually drive the truck. Theory is knowledge-based, whereas driving is skills-based. ProDriverU covers only the ELDT theory training.
What is the BTW driving skills instruction that is required by the ELDT?
The ELDT requires that every driver be proficient in specific driving skills. Training must include vehicle inspection and backing skills, as well as street driving skills. An approved training provider must do the skills training and determine whether your driving skills are proficient.
Can I receive my theory ELDT instruction online?
Yes. Pro Driver U is an approved training provider for the ELDT theory instruction.
How long does it take to complete the theory training for the ELDT using ProDriverU?
ProDriverU is very easy to use, and provides all the information and tests you need to complete the theory training. There is no required time or time limit. Take the time you need, and work at your own pace. Users are provided up to 90 days to complete the course.
Do I Need to complete all ELDT topics?
Yes. In order to successfully complete an ELDT course, you must obtain a score of 80% or more on all topics. With ProDriverU, you can track your progress on all topics and tests, so you will know what you have completed, as well as your current score.
What happens once I complete the ELDT online program with ProDriverU?
When you successfully complete the course, you will be issued a Certificate of Completion for your records. ProDriverU will also send notice of completion to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR).
Where can I get a copy of my ELDT certificate if I need one?
You can contact ProDriverU by clicking here and requesting an electronic copy of your certificate. Once ProDriverU verifies basic information, a certificate will be provided to you.
Can I take my theory training online with ProDriverU, but take my driver skills training at another school?
Yes. ProDriverU only provides the theory training. Skills training must be taken at an approved training provider. ProDriverU is happy to provide recommendations and referrals to good, approved schools we work with.
Do I get my CDL once I am finished with theory training with ProDriverU?
Not yet. You also need to complete your skills training at an approved CDL training school. You will not be allowed to take your CDL skills test until the record of completing ELDT (theory and skills) has been transmitted to FMCSA by the training provider.
Does ProDriverU notify the Training Provider Registry (TPR) at FMCSA when a driver completes an ELDT theory course?
Yes. Once you complete the course, ProDriverU uploads your ELDT completion record to the TPR within 2 days.
When do I need to get a CDL Permit?
A CDL permit is needed in order to drive a truck with an instructor in the truck with you. So, a permit should be obtained before you start the driver skills training at a truck driving school.
Can I use ProDriverU to help me get a CDL Permit?
Absolutely! ProDriverU has a FREE course that has all the information you need to prepare for the CDL test.
What is included in the ProDriverU free CDL permit prep course?
You can study for all the CDL permit topics, including General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles, Doubles and Triples, tanker and hazmat. ProDriverU includes everything you need to learn.