ELDT theory vs behind-the-wheel: what can be done online and what cannot
Theory: the part you can do online
Theory covers the knowledge side of driving a commercial motor vehicle: vehicle systems, basic control, safe operating procedures, hours of service, trip planning and more. The FMCSA allows theory to be taught online, as long as the content comes from qualified theory instructors.
There is no minimum number of hours for theory. You must cover every required topic and score at least 80 percent overall on the final theory assessment. Then your provider submits your completion to the registry.
Behind-the-wheel: the part you cannot do online
BTW training means you are actually driving. Watching someone else drive does not count. The federal rule says you must have actual control of the truck during the lesson, with a BTW instructor.
BTW has two settings:
- Range. An area free of obstructions where you can maneuver safely with good sight lines, away from traffic. This is where you practice backing, coupling and uncoupling, and other basic skills.
- Public road. Real streets and highways with traffic, where you practice turns, lane changes, intersections and other on-road skills.
Class A and Class B need both range and public road. Passenger and School Bus endorsements need range or public road. HAZMAT has no BTW part at all.
No federal minimum hours for BTW
Federal rules do not set a minimum number of BTW hours. Your instructor judges your proficiency, based on how you actually perform each required skill. Some drivers need more time than others.
Your state can add its own rule on top. For example, California requires 15 hours of behind-the-wheel training. Check with your state DMV before you choose a school.
Two providers are fine, if both are registered
Theory and BTW can come from different training providers. Both have to be on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for what they teach, and each one submits your completion for its part. A common plan is to take theory online and then do BTW with a local school or an employer.
Before you pay either one, look them up on the registry yourself. See how to check an ELDT provider.
The order of steps
There is no required order between theory, range and public road training. The only fixed rule is that all of your training must be finished and reported before you take the CDL skills test. A practical order for most Class A drivers:
- Take theory online (you can do it before you get your learner's permit).
- Get your CLP and wait at least 14 days.
- Do BTW range and public road training with a registered provider.
- Both providers submit your records, then you take the skills test.
For the full path, see how to get a Class A CDL.
Where ELDT365 fits
We teach theory only. We are on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for Class A, Class B, B to A upgrade, HAZMAT, Passenger and School Bus theory. Courses are $20, in full English or Spanish, and we file your completion the same day you pass. You then do BTW with any registered school or employer you choose.
Questions drivers ask
Can I do all of ELDT online?
Only the theory part. Class A and Class B also need behind-the-wheel training in a real truck. HAZMAT is the exception: it is theory only, so it can be done fully online.
How many hours of behind-the-wheel training do I need?
Federal rules set no minimum. Your instructor decides when you are proficient. Some states add a minimum, like California's 15 hours, so check with your state DMV.
Do I have to finish theory before behind-the-wheel?
No. There is no required order. You just have to finish both, and have both reported, before your skills test.
What score do I need on the theory test?
An overall score of at least 80 percent on the final theory assessment.
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