Entry-Level
Driver Training (ELDT)
Regulated by DOT and FMCSA
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Our Training Program
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Our training program is designed to give you the knowledge required to drive a commercial vehicle.
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There are 3 parts to the class:
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Theory: Book work providing knowledge and understanding of the basics of holding a CDL license and about being safe in a CDL vehicle.
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Behind-the-wheel (Range) Training: Teaches driving exercises related to basic vehicle control skills and mastery of basic control maneuvers.
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Behind-the-wheel (Public Road) Training: Teaches proficiency in the ability to recognize potential dangers, operating a CMV safely at night and in extreme conditions, and knowing the causes of skidding and jackkniffing and how to avoid and recover from them.
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We will teach you how to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection of your commercial motor vehicle in order for that vehicle to be safe for you and others on the road.
Steps to obtain a CDL Permit
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Get a DOT medical card (unless exempt)
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Go to the DMV with your required documents
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Pass the General Knowledge test and any other tests required for your endorsements
We Strive For Your Success!!
Important Information
Practice Test Links for Learner Permit:
About the ELDT Regulations
FMCSA’s Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations set the baseline for training requirements for entry-level drivers.
This applies to those seeking to:
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Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time;
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Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL; or
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Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.
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The ELDT regulations are not retroactive; 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.
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*FMCSA 2022, FMCSA website, accessed 20 June 2022, <https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov>
Commercial Driver License Endorsements
An Endorsement is a special authorization, which permits a driver to drive certain types of vehicles, to transport certain types of property, or a certain number of passengers. The following endorsements can be placed on Class A, B, or C commercial driver licenses.
Hazardous Materials (H) – If the CMV transports hazardous materials, it is required to be placarded under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act
Cargo Tanker (N) – If the CMV is designed to transport, as its primary cargo, any liquid or gaseous material with a tank permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle when said tank is designed to carry 1,000 gallons or more.
Passenger (P) – If CMV designed to transport more than 15 passengers including the driver. Capacity determined by manufacturer’s original design, or the legally modified design, whichever is greater.
School Bus (S) – If vehicle used as a school bus (designed to pick up and discharge children on public roadways to transport them to and from school/ school related activities). Those who drive students on activity trips using a school bus need the ‘S’. Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act (MCSIA), passed in 1999, MCSIA requirement: the representative vehicle for the school bus test requires a school bus with a capacity for at least 16 passengers. School Bus Mechanics who do not transport students do not need the ‘S’ endorsement, but they must have the ‘P’ endorsement and a class B license.
Multiple-Trailer (T) – Class A only: for CMV authorized to pull more than one trailer. Required for double or triple trailers.
Haz Mat & Tanker (X) – To operate a tanker transporting hazardous materials.
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* Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security,
TN.gov website, accessed 20 June 2022, <https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/commercial-driver-license.html>
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