Now that the entry-level driver training (ELDT) rule has been in place for a few weeks, carriers and schools are shifting from dealing with basic compliance to more specific, detailed issues.

The following are the top three questions being asked post-February 7.

1. The commercial learner’s permit (CLP)

Question: We have a driver who has had his Class A commercial learner’s permit (CLP) since December of 2021. He is scheduled to take his skills test to get his CDL next week. Is he required to complete ELDT prior to taking the skills test?

Answer: The new ELDT requirements apply to an individual who obtains a CLP on or after February 7, 2022. Because your driver obtained his CLP prior to that date, the new ELDT requirements do not apply.

Do note that if the driver’s CLP had expired or had been revoked, suspended, or canceled and he had to reapply for a CLP on or after February 7, 2022, he would be subject to the ELDT requirements.

2. Hazardous materials endorsement

Question: We have a driver who possesses a valid and current Class A CDL. She would like to add a hazardous materials endorsement to her CDL. Is she subject to the ELDT requirements?

Answer: If your driver already possesses a valid CDL and wants to add the hazmat endorsement, she must successfully complete theory instruction on 13 topics as outlined in Appendix E to Part 380. This instruction must be provided by a school or entity listed on the Training Provider Registry (TPR).

3. Restrictions

Question: I have a driver with an automatic transmission-only restriction on his Class B CDL. Does this driver have to complete ELDT to remove this restriction from his CDL?

Answer: Your driver with an automatic transmission-only restriction on his Class B CDL would not be subject to the ELDT requirements to remove that restriction.

To have this restriction removed, the driver will need to obtain a CLP that does not include the restriction and subsequently pass a skills test in a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission.