CDL MENTORS IS COMPLIANT WITH THE FMCSA ENTRY-LEVEL COMMERCIAL DRIVER TRAINING (ELDT) RULE
New federal regulations go into effect on February 7, 2022, to improve highway safety by ensuring that entry-level commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers complete the new entry-level driver training (ELDT) regulations.
Beginning February 7, entry-level CMV drivers will be unable to take their Commercial Driver License (CDL) test unless they have completed a specific program of theory and behind-the-wheel instruction provided by a school or other entity listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) new Training Provider Registry (TPR).
The ELDT regulations established by the FMCSA establish training requirements for entry-level CMV drivers applying to:
- Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time.
- Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL.
- Obtain a School Bus (S), Passenger (P), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement for the firsttime.
The ELDT regulations do not apply retroactively. Individuals who were issued a CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement prior to February 7, 2022, are not required to complete CDL or endorsement training. An applicant who obtains a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) before February 7, 2022, is exempt from ELDT requirements. The driver will have one year after receiving their CLP to complete the requirements and obtain their CDL. Individuals who meet one of the exceptions for taking a skills test in 49 CFR Part 383 are exempt from the ELDT requirements as well.
More information about the new ELDT regulations, which go into effect on February 7, can be found at the FMCSA website. (https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/)
