HOW TO GET YOUR CDL?
An updated step-by-step guide on how to get your CDL with the new Entry-Level Driver Training Course requirement!
step 1
Beginning February 7, 2022, passing the ELDT Theory course is made an official requirment for getting your CDL. Start your journey with our FMCSA approved course here! While you complete this step, consider preparing for your CLP exam.
step 2
Download our TF1 app while you complete the ELDT Course. Through this app, you will find jobs that fit your criteria in your area. Download the TF1 app here!
step 3
Schedule and complete your Deparment of Transportation (DOT) mandatory medical exam.
step 4
Visit your State’s department of motor vehicles website to learn how and where you can schedule your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) exam, and what documents you will need to provide.
step 5
The CDL School also provides you with access to our exam prep quiz bank of 500 questions to ensure you are prepared for the exam. You can find it here! Also, obtain a copy of the CDL manual from your local DMV.
step 6
After passing your CLP exam, register for Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) Training with The CDL School, a TransForce Group Company.
step 7
After successfully completing the BTW training course, the next step is registering for your CDL exam. Check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to schedule your exam.
step 8
Make sure all of these steps are completed before you go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles. In some cases, not having everything prepared will cause a delay on the scheduling of your final test!
step 9
Congratulations, you passed your CDL test and now you are ready to work! Use the Transforce Force 1 app and start your new career at Transforce!
FAQ
No, you are not required to take your ELDT prior to getting your CLP.
However, you must complete Entry-Level Driver Training before getting your CDL.
Yes we do! You can find the course here.
Anyone who is applying to get their Commercial Drivers License for the first time will need to complete the FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training requirement and achieve a final test score of 80% or greater. This must be done before taking the CDL skills exam.
The ELDT requirement went into effect on February 7, 2022.
The FMCSA provides a database (the Training Provider Registry: www.tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov) of all the schools that are registered to administer the ELDT course. Here at The CDL School, we provide an ELDT course and are registered with the FMCSA . You can start here!
Yes. We offer Behind-The-Wheel Training at our school locations across the country.
Check out our programs at https://www.cdlschool.com/cdl-training-programs/
FMCSA’s Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations set the baseline for training requirements for entry-level drivers.
This applies to those seeking to:
- Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time;
- Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL; or
- Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.
The CDL School is an FMCSA-registered ELDT provider! You can check out our ELDT program at https://www.cdlschool.com/eldtcourse/
ELDT THEORY COURSE SESSION OVERVIEW
Want to know what to expect during your ELDT Theory Course?
Below is a quick overview of every session of the course.
session 1
This session will discuss the basics of operating your future truck.
This session is split into seven lessons. Each one goes over a different basic operation topic.
session 2
This session will talk further about important procedures that all truck drivers are expected to understand.
There are seven lessons in this session. Each one going over an important safety procedure.
session 3
This session goes over more advanced procedures and is a bit more nuanced. Very important safety procedures are included.
A total of three lessons make up this session.
session 4
This session goes over a trucks system and how to report a malfunction of your vehicle.
This session is split up into three lessons.
session 5
The final session goes over non driving activities that are essential to your day-to-day work. Such as hours of service, fatigue, and documenting cargo.
This session is split up into ten lessons.