The Road to a Class A CDL: Why ELDT Training Matters More Than Ever
TL;DR
● Class A CDL drivers are in high demand across industries like freight, construction, and agriculture.
● FMCSA regulations require ELDT-compliant training for all new Class A applicants.
● Get Drivers Ed offers a flexible, online, FMCSA-approved Class A ELDT course.
● Topics include safe driving, vehicle inspection, hours-of-service, and cargo securement.
● Completing online ELDT training is the first major step toward a commercial driving career.
Thinking about starting a career as a professional truck driver? There’s never been a better time. With a Class A CDL, you’ll unlock high-paying opportunities across the U.S.—but before
you shift into gear, there’s one major requirement to meet: Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Thanks to updated FMCSA rules, all new Class A applicants must now complete an ELDTcompliant training course before taking the CDL skills test. Fortunately, Get Drivers Ed offers a modern solution: an online CDL training program that’s affordable, self-paced, and fully FMCSA-approved.
Let’s walk through why this course is essential, and how it puts you on the fast track to a commercial driving career.
What Is a Class A CDL?
A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A is the top-tier license that allows you to operate combination vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more, provided the towed unit is more than 10,000 lbs.
With a Class A CDL, you’re qualified to drive:
● Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers
● Livestock carriers
● Flatbeds
● Tanker trucks
● And more
Learn more about the types of CDL licenses from the FMCSA. ( ➡️ external link)
What Is ELDT and Why Do You Need It?
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal training standard required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). As of February 7, 2022, anyone applying for a Class A CDL for the first time must complete an ELDT-compliant course from an approved provider.
The training includes both theory instruction (which you can complete online) and behind-thewheel training (done with a licensed provider).
View the official ELDT mandate overview on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. ➡️
What’s Included in the Online CDL Training?
Our CDL Class A ELDT course is designed to be comprehensive, flexible, and fully aligned with FMCSA regulations.
Theory Modules Cover:
● Vehicle inspection and basic control
● Shifting, backing, and turning techniques
● Hazard perception and crash prevention
● Emergency maneuvers and safe driving behavior
● Hours of service and logbook compliance
● Weight distribution and cargo securement
These modules prepare you for your CDL knowledge test and real-world driving situations.
Start the ➡️ CDL Class A ELDT course today and move one step closer to certification.
Benefits of Online CDL Class A Training
There’s no need to rearrange your life for in-person classroom sessions. With Get Drivers Ed, you get:
● 24/7 course access on mobile, tablet, or computer
● Self-paced learning—pause and resume anytime
● Automatic progress tracking
● Direct reporting to FMCSA upon completion
● Affordable pricing compared to in-person schools
We make commercial driver’s license training flexible for working adults, career changers, and motivated beginners.
Curious how Class A licensing stacks up? This guide to CDL salaries by license type breaks ➡️ it down.
Who Should Take This Course?
The online CDL training program is perfect for:
● First-time CDL applicants
● Career switchers entering the trucking industry
● Drivers upgrading from Class B to Class A
● Farmers or equipment operators needing proper credentials
● Veterans or military service members transitioning to civilian jobs
No matter your background, if you’re ready to move freight, haul goods, or transport heavy cargo, this course is your starting point.
