Mercury CDL Training — Pre-Launch Notice: Mercury CDL Training is currently providing informational and supplemental educational resources through this website. Availability of any future Mercury ELDT completion program will be announced only when the applicable program is authorized and activated. This page is educational information only.
What Is ELDT?
ELDT stands for Entry-Level Driver Training. It refers to a set of federal training requirements established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that commercial drivers must complete before receiving certain CDL classifications or endorsements for the first time.
ELDT requirements went into effect on February 7, 2022. They apply to drivers who are applying for a CDL or certain endorsements for the first time — not to drivers who already hold the applicable license or endorsement.
Who Needs ELDT?
ELDT requirements generally apply to entry-level drivers who are:
- Obtaining a Class A CDL for the first time
- Obtaining a Class B CDL for the first time
- Upgrading an existing CDL from one class to a higher class (e.g., Class B to Class A)
- Obtaining a Passenger (P) endorsement for the first time
- Obtaining a School Bus (S) endorsement for the first time
- Obtaining a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement for the first time
Important Note
Drivers who already held a valid CDL or applicable endorsement before February 7, 2022 are generally not subject to ELDT requirements for the license or endorsement they already held. However, drivers adding a new class or endorsement they did not previously hold may need to complete ELDT. Verify requirements with your state DMV and FMCSA.
Two Types of ELDT Training
1. Theory Training
Theory training covers the knowledge portion of ELDT — the concepts, regulations, systems, and safety principles that commercial drivers need to understand. It can be completed online with an FMCSA-registered theory training provider.
Theory training typically covers topics such as: basic vehicle operation, safe operating procedures, advanced driving practices, vehicle systems and reporting malfunctions, non-driving activities, and traffic signs and signals.
2. Skills Training
Skills training is the behind-the-wheel portion of ELDT. It must be completed with an FMCSA-registered skills training provider using an actual commercial vehicle. Skills training cannot be completed online and must include basic vehicle control, straight-line backing, alley docking, and on-road driving.
Key Distinction
Theory training and skills training are separate. Completing theory training online does not satisfy the skills training requirement. Both must be completed with registered providers before a CDL skills test can be taken.
Do You Need a CLP Before Starting ELDT Theory Training?
No. You do not need a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) before beginning ELDT theory training. ELDT theory training may be started before obtaining a CLP. However, certain identifying or licensing information will typically be required before your ELDT completion can be reported to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
The FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR)
The Training Provider Registry (TPR) is a federal database maintained by the FMCSA that lists registered ELDT theory and skills training providers. Only providers listed on the TPR can provide training that counts toward ELDT completion for CDL licensing purposes.
When a student completes training, the registered provider submits the student's completion information to the TPR. State DMVs verify this completion information before issuing the CDL or endorsement.
Common ELDT Questions
Does completing ELDT give me my CDL? ▾
No. Completing ELDT theory and skills training satisfies the training requirement, but a CDL is issued by your state licensing authority after you pass the CDL knowledge test and CDL skills test. No training provider issues a CDL.
Can ELDT theory training be done online? ▾
Yes. ELDT theory training can be completed online with an FMCSA-registered theory training provider. Skills training must be done in person with a registered skills provider using a real commercial vehicle.
How long does ELDT take? ▾
The time varies based on the provider, student pace, and whether theory and skills training are completed together or separately. Federal regulations establish minimum curriculum content requirements but do not mandate a specific number of hours for theory training.
What is the minimum passing score for ELDT theory? ▾
The FMCSA requires that trainees demonstrate the applicable minimum proficiency standard, which includes an 80% minimum on the theory assessment. Providers may establish their own additional requirements such as quiz structures, assessment length, and retake policies.
Is ELDT required in every state? ▾
ELDT is a federal requirement applicable across the United States for drivers obtaining applicable CDL classifications or endorsements for the first time. States may have additional requirements. Verify with your state DMV.
Authoritative Sources
This page is educational information. Requirements may change. Verify current requirements with FMCSA and your state DMV.