Understanding ELDT Requirements in New York State: What CDL Applicants Need to Know

If you’re planning to earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in New York, understanding the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements is not optional—it’s essential. As of February 7, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that all new CDL applicants meet standardized ELDT requirements before they can take the skills or knowledge tests for certain CDL classes and endorsements.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about ELDT requirements in New York State, including who needs to complete ELDT, what the training includes, where to take it, how to stay compliant, and how to get started the right way.
Who Needs to Take ELDT in New York?
You are required to complete ELDT if you:
  • Are applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
  • Are upgrading an existing CDL (for example, moving from a Class B to a Class A license)
  • Are seeking a first-time Passenger (P), School Bus (S), or Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a recent graduate, a career changer, or a military veteran looking to transition to civilian work—if you're entering the world of commercial driving, ELDT is a non-negotiable requirement.
It’s also important to note that if your commercial learner’s permit (CLP) was issued before February 7, 2022, and you received your CDL before your CLP expired, you are exempt. Everyone else must comply with ELDT rules.
What Does ELDT Include?
The ELDT curriculum is standardized by the FMCSA and divided into two major components:

1. Theory Training
This section can be completed in a classroom or online. Online Traffic Safety offers a self-paced online version to fit your schedule. Theory training covers the following:
  • Basic Operation: Pre-trip inspections, control systems, shifting gears, and backing maneuvers.
  • Safe Operating Procedures: Speed and space management, use of mirrors, scanning, and nighttime driving.
  • Advanced Operating Practices: Skid control, recovery, jackknifing, and hazard perception.
  • Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions: Learning how systems work and how to report any issues properly.
  • Non-Driving Activities: Hours of service regulations, trip planning, cargo handling, and whistleblower protection.
If you’re applying for endorsements like HazMat, you’ll also complete specialized modules related to hazardous materials handling and safety regulations.
Theory training is usually concluded with an assessment or quiz to test your knowledge of the content. You must achieve a passing score to successfully complete this phase.

2. Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) Training
Behind-the-wheel training must be conducted in person and in a vehicle that matches the class of CDL you’re pursuing.
It includes two parts:
  • Range Training: Controlled environment practice for maneuvers like straight-line backing, parallel parking, and offset backing.
  • Public Road Training: Real-world driving, including turning, merging, lane changes, and interacting with other vehicles.
There’s no minimum number of hours required, but your trainer must verify that you’ve demonstrated proficiency in all required skills. The goal is to ensure you're comfortable operating a commercial vehicle under realistic conditions.

What Happens After You Complete ELDT?
After you’ve completed your ELDT coursework, your training provider must submit proof of completion to the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR). This step is essential—without it, the DMV won’t let you proceed to your CDL skills or knowledge test.
Once your training is registered, you’re free to schedule your CDL exam at a New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYSDMV) location.
Some students mistakenly believe that completing ELDT alone qualifies them for a CDL. While it's a critical step, it must be followed by passing the required exams administered by the NYSDMV. These typically include a written knowledge test and a practical road skills test.
Where to Complete ELDT in New York
You can only take ELDT from a provider listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. That’s where Online Traffic Safety comes in.
We offer FMCSA-approved theory courses that are:
  • 100% online and mobile-friendly
  • Fully narrated and user-friendly
  • Designed for all license classes and endorsements
  • Automatically reported to the FMCSA upon completion
We’ve helped hundreds of students across New York successfully meet their ELDT requirements and move on to the testing stage with confidence. Explore available CDL courses now.
Choosing a reliable provider isn’t just about convenience—it’s about ensuring you’re getting the correct and complete training that meets all federal and state requirements. With Online Traffic Safety, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing your course is compliant, up-to-date, and built for success.
ELDT for Specific Endorsements in New York
If you’re applying for one of the following endorsements, here’s how ELDT applies:
Passenger (P) Endorsement
You’ll need to complete both theory and BTW training. The training must include skills for operating a bus with passengers, managing emergencies, and boarding/disembarking procedures. You must demonstrate awareness of passenger safety and special driving conditions for larger vehicles.
School Bus (S) Endorsement
In addition to the P endorsement requirements, you’ll learn about student safety protocols, safe loading zones, and behavior management. This is critical if you’re planning to work for a school district or operate any vehicle used to transport school children.
Hazardous Materials (H) EndorsementYou only need theory training for HazMat. The course will cover:
  • Hazard classification
  • Shipping papers
  • Marking and labeling
  • Loading and unloading
  • Emergency response information
  • Security threats
After completing training, your provider will report it to the FMCSA, and you’ll be eligible to take the HazMat knowledge test at a DMV office. In addition, you’ll be required to pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check.
When to Complete ELDT in the Licensing Process
Here’s the sequence you should follow:
  • Get Your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) – Pass the general knowledge exam at a DMV office.
  • Complete ELDT – Take your theory and/or BTW training as required for your license class or endorsement.
  • Get Verified on FMCSA TPR – Make sure your provider submits your completion to the registry.
  • Take Your CDL Skills Test – Once your training is verified, schedule your test through the NYSDMV.
There’s no shortcut. You cannot bypass ELD

Step 1: Determine Which CDL You Need
Is ELDT required for renewals?
No, ELDT is not required if you’re simply renewing your existing CDL without adding any new classes or endorsements.
Can I complete ELDT out of state?
Yes, as long as the training provider is listed on the FMCSA’s TPR and your results are reported, it will be accepted in New York.
Do I need to complete ELDT for a CDL permit?
No. ELDT is required before you can take the CDL skills test—not to obtain a permit. However, completing it early gives you more flexibility.
How long is ELDT valid?
There’s currently no expiration on ELDT training once it’s reported to the FMCSA, but you should complete your CDL testing as soon as possible to keep your momentum and avoid permit expiration.
Why Choose Online Traffic Safety for ELDT in New York?
At Online Traffic Safety, we’ve built our courses with real New York drivers in mind. We offer:

  • Instant access to start your course right away
  • FMCSA-compliant content and certification
  • Easy tracking of your progress and completion status
  • Support via email or phone for any questions you have
Our platform is designed for efficiency—no fluff, just the training you need to move forward. Start today by browsing our available courses.

Start Your ELDT Today
There’s no better time to start your training than now. Visit our Courses page to enroll in a self-paced program, or contact us through our Contact page if you have questions.
Whether you're just getting started or finally ready to take your CDL test, let Online Traffic Safety help you meet the ELDT requirements and hit the road with confidence.