ELDT, or entry-level driver training, is a federal requirement for new commercial truck drivers. It includes both classroom education and behind-the-wheel training. ELDT went into effect on February 7, 2022, and will affect both new truck drivers and CDL training institutions. To apply, complete an online application. A career specialist will contact you to discuss your training needs and tuition costs. Learn more about ELDT requirements.
Entry-level driver training (ELDT) is a federal requirement for new commercial truck drivers
The Entry-Level Driver Training or ELDT, mandate sets minimum standards for education and training for commercial truck drivers. This includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. In order to graduate from ELDT, a driver must score 80 percent or higher on a theory test and have specific behind-the-wheel training, and be endorsed by a qualified instructor. There are many ways to earn the ELDT endorsement.
The ELDT requires training providers to register with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry, luckily Marrone Logistics is one of these providers. This registry makes it easier for prospective drivers to find an ELDT training center that meets the requirements of the ELDT. This new law also requires training providers to self-certify that they have completed the ELDT requirements and are registered with the FMCSA. However, the process may seem complex, but it isn’t.
It includes classroom education and behind-the-wheel training
The ELDT program breaks the training process into three different categories: Classroom/Theory, Behind-the-Wheel Range Training, and Behind-the-Wheel Road Training. The first part of the training includes the classroom portion, which requires a passing score on an assessment. The second part of the training includes behind-the-wheel training. While the behind-the-wheel training does not have a minimum length, the instructors will still assess a student’s knowledge and abilities.
The FMCSA has outlined the requirements for entry-level drivers. This rule went into effect on February 7, 2022. It requires drivers to complete a pre-determined program of theory education and behind-the-wheel training from an FMCSA Training Provider Registry. It has been delayed because some states had not been ready but is now set to go into effect. As more drivers become eligible to obtain a CDL, the ELDT requirement will be met more quickly.
It goes into effect on February 7, 2022
The new ELDT requirements go into effect on February 7th, 2022. All drivers will need training before they can take the CDL skills test. This training will consist of classroom, range, and road training. To become an ELDT driver, an applicant must complete the training through an entity registered with the FMCSA. The entity can be any entity, as long as it meets the minimum requirements.
In its NPRM, the FMCSA stated that a three-year delay in the implementation of the ELDT requirements is reasonable. However, the agency did not propose to extend any other compliance date. Instead, it proposed to make changes to clarify the rules regarding the new requirements. While the NPRM received 56 comments, there were no public meetings held by the agency. In addition, the agency did not hold a public hearing to address concerns about the new rule.
It affects both new truck drivers and CDL training institutions
The ELDT mandate greatly impacts CDL training institutions and new truck drivers. Although the mandate is not retroactive and exempts CDL holders who obtained their licenses before February 7, 2022, it is making it more difficult for trucking companies to train their own employees. Instead, they must turn to FMCSA-registered training schools to provide the necessary training for their employees but this does ensure a certain level of standards to be attained. The ELDT mandate will help ensure that new drivers have adequate training before hitting the road which has sometimes been an issue with trucking companies in house staff training. However, this new law will add significant time and expense to the training of potential CDL drivers. Therefore, preparation for CDL training is crucial, Marrone Logistics offers training for ELDT and various other trucking-related courses.
The ELDT rule is a long-awaited rule that sets minimum standards for entry-level CDL training. It was developed during the Obama administration but was delayed by the Trump administration. It outlines the minimum training requirements for CDL drivers, as well as those seeking CDL upgrades or endorsements. The new requirements will require CDL training institutions to update their curriculum to meet the standards.
Get in contact with Marrone Logistics today and enroll yourself in a course and get your trucking career underway.
