ELDT and the FMCSA Training Provider Registry

Since February 7, 2022, anyone getting a Class A or B CDL for the first time, upgrading B to A, or adding a school bus, passenger or hazmat endorsement must complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a provider on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry. If your school is not on the registry, your training does not count.

What ELDT covers

• Theory: classroom or online instruction with a passing score on the provider's assessment.
• Behind-the-wheel range: maneuvers on a practice range.
• Behind-the-wheel public road: driving on real roads with an instructor.

The provider reports your completion to the registry, and your state checks it before you test. The rule is 49 CFR Part 380.

How to check a school

1. Search the provider on the Training Provider Registry.
2. Confirm the status is Active and the location is the one you will attend.
3. Check that the location is registered for the class (A or B) and the parts (theory, range, public road) you need.
4. Check again the week you enroll: FMCSA has removed thousands of providers since December 2025, and providers can be placed in review.

How we use the registry

Our CDL pages are built from the registry's full location download dated 2026-11-02. We keep 2,934 locations that are In-Person, open to the public, Active, and registered for Class A behind-the-wheel training, and drop private fleet-only programs. Each location page shows the class and theory/range/road flags exactly as registered.

After training

You need a commercial learner's permit for at least 14 days before the skills test (49 CFR 383.25); your state issues the permit and the CDL.

Questions, answered from the data

Does my CDL school have to be on the FMCSA registry?

Yes, for entry-level driver training. Training from a provider that is not on the Training Provider Registry does not satisfy the ELDT requirement, so you could not take the skills test on it.

Can I take ELDT theory online?

Theory can be delivered online by a registered provider. Behind-the-wheel training on the range and public road is in person.

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• Company-paid CDL training, explained

Sources: IPEDS Completions 2023-24 (C2024_A) and Directory (HD2024), NCES; College Scorecard institution data (2025-26 charges, released Nov 2, 2026) and field-of-study data (Oct 15, 2026); FMCSA Training Provider Registry (as of 2026-11-02); BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Checked 2026-11-02. How we build this list.