Drivers must undergo training to pass their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) knowledge and skills test. However, for a long time, these requirements were dictated by the employer and not any government agency. Now, government officials have introduced regulations to ensure every CDL driver on the road has the proper knowledge and training to keep everyone on the road safe.

FMCSAs New Entry-Level Driving Rule

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued new Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations early this year. Anyone in the trucking industry knows that the new FMCSA entry-level driving rule has been a long time coming. It was developed by the Obama Administration and was finalized nearly five years ago. The rules finally establish a standard for training drivers who are looking to get their CDL or other driving endorsements.

The regulation’s compliance date is February 7, 2022. This means that any prospective drivers that did not have a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before this date will need to complete additional coursework. The training provider must also be compliant with the new rule. FMCSA officials have been building a database of registered training providers.

Entry-Level Driver Training Certificate (ELDT)

If you take a look at the FMCSA rules, they break down exactly what kind of training is needed for each type of driver. It is The ELDT certificate requires skills and knowledge tests for the specific CDL you are applying for. You have to take these courses and pass tests with a registered training provider.

What is the Training Provider Registry?

As mentioned above, the FMCSA has started putting together a database of registered training providers. This is a list of driving schools, employers, and facilities that are registered to provide the new entry-level driver training. You can find a full list on the FMCSA website.

About the Entry-Level Driver Training Regulations

The ELDT regulations spell out exactly what kind of training is needed for drivers. Training includes both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction, but there is no set number of hours that need to be completed. Course material includes basic vehicle operation, control systems, trip inspections, roadside inspections, backing and docking your vehicle, the dangers of distracted driving, and more.

Who is Subject to the ELDT Training Requirements?

Anyone who has not received their CLP prior to February 7 will be subjected to the new ELDT training requirements. You will also need to meet ELDT requirements if the FMCSA considers you to be an entry-level driver.

Who is Considered an Entry Level Driver?

Entry-level drivers aren’t necessarily new to the industry. Entry-level drivers include those wanting to upgrade from a Class B to a Class A CDL; people wanting to drive a school bus, passenger cars, and hazmat vehicles; and individuals who are obtaining their Class A or Class B CDL for the first time.

The ELDT requirements are not retroactive. So, drivers who already had their CDL endorsement prior to February 7 will not have to complete the new training. There are a few other individuals who are exempt from ELDT requirements under 49 CFR part 383.

The 3 Types of CDLs

Generally speaking, a CDL is the type of license required to operate large machinery or hazardous material vehicles. You need to hold a CDL to operate a variety of different commercial motor vehicles. Employers looking for help often look for CDL-endorsed drivers before anyone else (though some employers will pay for your licensing).

It is also key that you have the proper endorsements on your CDL too. Passenger (P) is given to CDL drivers who are operating passenger vehicles, such as a tour bus. If you want to drive vehicles carrying liquid cargo you’ll need a Tank (T) endorsement. A Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement gives you what you need to transport things like flammable liquids and radioactive substances. CDL holders wanting to drive a school bus will need to get an S endorsement. To obtain any of these endorsements, you will need to pass a background check.

The different types of CDLs essentially license you to operate larger vehicles. Each one comes with its own permissions and endorsements.

Class A CDL

A Class A CDL is required for drivers who wish to operate a vehicle with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, given that the vehicle being towed is heavier than 10,000 pounds. Class A CDL drivers are permitted to drive tractor-trailers, truck/trailer combinations, livestock carriers, flatbeds, tanker vehicles, and most vehicles included under Class B and Class C licenses.

Class B CDL

You are required to have a Class B CDL to operate vehicles heavier than 26,000 pounds that aren’t hitched to a trailer. Drivers with a Class B CDL are permitted to drive vehicles like straight trucks, large and segmented buses, box trucks, dump trucks, and a few Class C vehicles as well (with the proper endorsements).

Class C CDL

A Class C CDL is one of the most common. This is required to drive a vehicle with a GCWR of less than 26,001, towing a vehicle weighing less than 10,000, or transporting 16+ passengers. Vehicles included under the Class C CDL include double and triple trailers, tank trucks, and hazardous material (HazMat) vehicles.

How to Get a CDL in California in 2022

While the ELDT training regulations were introduced at a federal level, state governments can still impose additional requirements on drivers. In 1986, California adopted the Federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This requires anyone who wishes to drive a commercial vehicle to have a CDL. It also ensures that a uniform system of licensing the drivers is used, including standardized testing and classifying procedures.

Drivers must also meet a number of other criteria such as passing a medical exam and CDL tests as well as providing proof of identification and a Social Security card.

California CDL Age Requirements

There are different requirements for CDL drivers depending on what kind of vehicle you plan to drive. You only need to be 18 years old to drive a commercial motor vehicle in the state of California, but you will only be able to drive within state lines.

Drivers must be 21 years of age to perform any interstate commercial driving. You also must be 21 to move hazardous waste materials or drive double/triple trailers.

Step 1: Apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit

Before anyone can get a CDL in California, you must apply for a CLP or Commercial Learner’s Permit. To apply you must be 18 years old and already have a regular driver’s license. You will also need to provide your Social Security card and they will take your photo and thumbprint.

There will be a 10-year background check performed to see if you have been issued a license in any other state. Drivers in California must also submit a medical exam report and a self-certification form stating the type of driving they intend to do. A vision test and written exam are also required. There is a fee required to take the license class as well.

Once you’ve completed everything above, you will be permitted to drive Class A vehicles as long as you are accompanied by a driver with a valid Class A license. This takes you one step closer to being able to apply for your CDL.

Step 2: Enroll at a CDL Trucking School

You will need to take a road test to get your CDL. A truck driving school will teach you how to inspect your vehicle, how to drive and maintain it. These courses can be completed at your own pace. The information you learn will be helpful when it comes time to take your road test.

Step 3: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training

As mentioned above, there are entry-level driver training requirements new drivers must adhere to. Anyone applying for a new CDL endorsement will need to complete this training, which includes theory and behind-the-wheel instruction.

Component 1: Theory Training

The first component of ELDT is theory training. This includes lectures, online courses, demonstrations, etc. A simulator may be used in some cases. Topics covered in the theory portion of the training include basic vehicle operation, safe operating procedures, reporting malfunctions, non-driving activities, among other things. There is no set minimum number of hours needed in theory training.

Component 2: Behind-the-Wheel Training

ELDT requires some hands-on behind-the-wheel training as well. In California, drivers are required to have at least 15 hours behind the wheel before moving forward with applying for their CDL. During this portion of the ELDT, you will drive commercial vehicles in preparation for your road test. Practice generally takes place on a road or driving range and you learn basic maneuvering techniques.

Step 4: Apply for a CDL at Local DMV

After you’ve completed the ELDT requirements and all of the proper training, you can apply for a CDL at your local DMV. You’ll want to make an appointment and bring the appropriate class of vehicle to take your road test in. The DMV will give the vehicle a pre-trip inspection. Once it passes, you will be able to take the test. Applicants receive three chances to receive their CDL.

Once You Have Obtained Your CDL Reach Out to Premium Transport Staffing for your First Commercial Truck Driving Job

The great thing about pursuing a CDL is that you will have virtually limitless opportunities for work. Drivers are always needed to transport materials and products. Our truck driver staffing agency will help you identify jobs that meet your needs. We even have a state-of-the-art app where you can interact with employers directly. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you find your first commercial truck driving job.