ELDT theory training, explained

By Casey Morgan · Updated October 21, 2026 · Based on 49 CFR Part 380 (eCFR, current as of Oct. 19, 2026) and FMCSA's Training Provider Registry.

Entry-level driver training (ELDT) has two parts: theory (classroom or online knowledge training) and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training on a range and public roads. Theory can be taken online from any TPR-listed provider, with BTW done separately at a school. Here's what the federal rules say.

Who needs ELDT theory?

You need it if you are applying for the first time for a Class A or Class B CDL, upgrading from Class B to Class A, or getting a passenger (P), school bus (S) or hazmat (H) endorsement for the first time. You must train with a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (49 CFR 380.609). Read the full who-needs-ELDT rules and exceptions.

Can I take theory online?

Yes. Federal rules define theory instruction to include online training and computer-based instruction (49 CFR 380.605). Providers that offer theory only online don't have to meet state theory-instructor qualification requirements (49 CFR 380.703(a)(5)(ii)), but online content must be prepared and/or delivered by a qualified theory instructor (49 CFR 380.707(b)). As of October 21, 2026, the registry lists 1,222 active online training locations.

What the rules require

Passing score: theory ends with a written assessment, and you need an overall score of at least 80% (49 CFR 380.715(a)).
No minimum hours: there is no required minimum number of instruction hours for theory, but every topic in the curriculum must be covered (49 CFR Part 380, Appendix A; Appendix E for hazmat).
Hazmat is theory-only: the H endorsement curriculum (Appendix E) has only theory units, and you must complete it before taking the H knowledge test.
Mixing providers is allowed: theory and BTW can come from different providers, but range and public-road BTW must come from the same provider (49 CFR 380.707(c)).
One-year window: except for hazmat, you must finish theory and BTW within one year of completing the first part (49 CFR 380.603(c)(3)).
Your record: the provider must submit your completion to the registry by midnight of the second business day after you finish (49 CFR 380.717).

How to choose an online theory provider

Confirm the provider is active on the Training Provider Registry, not under review or removed.
Make sure it offers the exact course you need (Class A, Class B, the B-to-A upgrade, P, S or H).
Ask how quickly it submits completions to the registry. You can't test until your record appears.
If you already know where you'll do BTW, ask that school whether it accepts outside theory or bundles its own.

Online theory providers we may recommend

Partner placements below are labeled. Partners never affect any provider's registry status shown on this site.

Sources

49 CFR Part 380, Subparts F and G. ecfr.gov
49 CFR Part 380, Appendix A (Class A curriculum) and Appendix E (hazardous materials curriculum). ecfr.gov
FMCSA Training Provider Registry. tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov