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Updates to Entry-Level Driver Training

Oct. 5 2021 News By Southwest International Staff

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Beginning February 7, 2022, there will be new federal standards set for commercial driver’s license schools. Those that will be immediately impacted are drivers applying for an initial CDL, upgrading a current CDL, or obtaining hazardous materials, passenger, or school bus endorsement. 


Under these new requirements, an entry-level driver must successfully complete a prescribed program of theory and behind-the-wheel instruction. These requirements do not apply to individuals holding a valid CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement issued prior to February 7, 2022. Before taking the knowledge test or the state-administered CDL skills or hazmat endorsement tests, training must be provided by an entity listed on FMCSA’s newly established Training Provider Registry. 


What are the new requirements? 

  • CDL school requirements: The minimum standards and requirements for CDL schools will be set at a federal level, as opposed to being set by each state.
  • Department of Transportation management: CDL schools must record and report hours behind the wheel to DOT. There is no federal minimum. 
  • Schools must register and self-certify: Schools can self-certify instructors. Individual instructors may have to register with the DOT depending on the state.
  • CDL driving instructor requirements: Driving instructors are required to have a minimum of 2 years of driving experience, a clean motor vehicle record, and medical certification for the classroom, on the road, and private range instruction.
  • Increase in curriculum mandates:
    • DOT requires 31 theory course topics instead of the original four knowledge topics, which will be accompanied by 19 mandated behind-the-wheel skills that will be tested with vehicle inspection skills at the state department of motor vehicles.
    • The new Training Provider Registry will require CDL schools to apply to join, starting February 7, 2022


Once operational, the FMCSA Training Provider Registry will retain a record of which CDL applicants have completed the new training and certification process outlined in the Entry-Level Driver Training regulations. 

For more information about the ELDT regulations and the Training Provider registry, visit https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov.