CDL ELDT Resources
Regulations related to entry-level drivers seeking to obtain their commercial driver’s license (CDL) took effect in February 2022. The Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations and associated Training Provider Registry were mandated under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) of 2012.
The training requirements under the ELDT apply to those seeking the following licenses:
- Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
- Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL
- Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time
Iowa LTAP is committed to providing training and technical assistance to Iowa’s local governments, which includes providing resources to help these agencies navigate federal regulations. The following links and details aim to provide comprehensive information about the training requirements and opportunities available.
If there’s more information we can provide, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Top Resources
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA) has several resources on this page, including details on how to get started and on the ELDT regulations.
The FMCSA has also provided a brief video with an overview of the new regulations.
The FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry page includes both details on how to register as a provider and how to find a provider offering the appropriate training.
Additionally, the FMCSA has a very details Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page that may provide answers to specific issues or concerns.
The Iowa Department of Transportation’s CDL page offers Iowa-specific information about obtaining a CDL, including details on the ELDT regulations, details on CDL testing (including finding Iowa testing locations), and finding acceptable third-party testers.
The American Public Works Association (APWA) held an idea exchange about CDL training implementation in 2023. The recording is available for anyone to watch; a free login is required but being an APWA member is not.
The Ohio LTAP also offers resources for completing theory training online, including access to its eLearning catalogue. The Ohio LTAP resources also includes details to assist local public agencies.
The Ohio LTAP also provides an extensive video with details for local public agencies about how to set up CDL training. However, note that any established training in Iowa must meet Iowa’s regulations.
Clear Roads has completed a project on ELDT for maintenance equipment operators that provides several resources embedded on the page, including webinars on training, a fact sheet, and a request form to access online training materials.
Iowa LTAP Resources
Fill out the form at the above link to access a webinar Iowa LTAP provided in February 2022 that provides an overview of the ELDT regulations as well as updates on the FMCSA’s CDL Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.
Fill out the form at the above link to access a webinar Iowa LTAP provided in November 2022 that provides insights from four cities on how they implemented the new ELDT regulations within their agencies, with questions from those who attended the webinar.