ELDT (Entry Level Driver Training) a federal rule, establishes minimum training requirements for individuals who are applying for a Class A or Class B CDL, an upgrade of their CDL or a hazardous materials (H),passenger (P), or school bus (S) endorsement for their license for the first time. ELDT contains two parts, Theory and Behind The Wheel (BTW) training. ELDT is separate from CDL testing and must be completed prior to the individual taking their CDL skills test.

The federal rule does not require a minimum number of instruction hours for Behind the Wheel training, HOWEVER KANSAS SCHOOL BUS REGULATION, KAR 91-38-6 REQUIRES A MINIMUM OF 12 HOURS. The training instructor must cover all topics set forth in the BTW curriculum. BTW training must be conducted in a School Bus for which a Class B CDL is required. The instructor must determine and document that each driver-trainee has demonstrated proficiency in all elements of the BTW curriculum unless otherwise noted. A simulation device cannot be used to conduct such training or to demonstrate proficiency. Training instructors* must document the total number of clock hours each driver-trainee spends to complete the BTW curriculum. Please note, federal law 49 CFR 383.25 prohibits a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) holder from transporting students.

There is a lot of confusion and misinformation regarding ELDT (Entry Level Driver Training). To help simplify this process we have put together some frequently asked questions which are available upon request from the School Transportation Unit. Remember in most cases if the school district trained new drivers in the past you can continue to do so and comply with ELDT if:

1. The district has a trainer (someone who has had a valid CDL with a P & S endorsement for at least 2 years)
2. The district sets up an account in the TPR (Training Provider Registry)
3. The district trainer administers the Theory portion of ELDT
4. The district trainer documents the Behind the Wheel training

* Instructor requirements: Minimum Class B CDL plus appropriate endorsements, 2 years CMV driving experience, No CMV driving convictions during the two years prior. Instructors self-certify.

KSDE ELDT Flowchart

Behind The Wheel Documentation Forms - Optional Form/Worksheet which can be used to document ELDT Behind The Wheel Training

Class B CDL plus P & S Endorsement
P & S Endorsement
S Endorsement

FMCSA YouTube Video 

FMCSA PART 380 FMCSA Regulations pertaining to Entry Level Driver Training

The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization developing model programs in motor vehicle administration, law enforcement and highway safety. The association also serves as an information clearinghouse in these areas, and acts as the international spokesman for these interests.  Federal regulation, 49 CFR 383.131,  requires states to provide the AAMVA manual or one comparable to  CDL applicants

AAMVA  Entry Level Driver Training Fact Sheet

Beginning February 7, 2022, entities that intend to provide entry-level driver training for commercial drivers must be registered and listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR). Entry-level driver training includes training for individuals applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrading a Class B to a Class A CDL, or applying for a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.

Training Provider Registry Login

Guide and Directions for how to register for the Training Provider Registry

Training Provider Registry Frequently Asked Questions

About the Training Provider Registry

Registration Link and More Information

ELDT Implementation Checklist

A Training Provider's Guide to ELDT Requirements