ELDT stands for Entry-Level Driver Training, which is a training program required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for entry-level drivers seeking a Class A or B commercial drivers license (CDL) for the first time, upgrading to a Class A or B CDL, or obtaining a passenger (P), school bus (S), or hazardous material (H) endorsement for the first time. The ELDT regulations set the baseline for training requirements for entry-level drivers, and the training must be obtained from a training provider listed on the Training Provider Registry (TPR) . The TPR is a system created and managed by FMCSA that lists all ELDT providers approved by FMCSA and allows ELDT providers to submit ELDT completion information to the TPR. The completion information maintained on the TPR serves as proof that the entry-level driver applicant has completed the required ELDT.

The ELDT regulations are not retroactive, meaning individuals who were issued a CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement prior to February 7, 2022, are not required to complete training for the respective CDL or endorsement. The ELDT will require training providers to register with the national Training Provider Registry, making it easier for prospective drivers to find training centers. Despite false rumors spreading on social media, the process for obtaining a CDL will not markedly differ from what takes place today. Prospective drivers will be required to pass a theory/knowledge test and a road/skills test. The new ELDT simply means everyone will be using the same curriculum nationwide.