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Class A CDL Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) – Theory Course

Course Overview

The trucking and transportation industry continues to offer outstanding career opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, heavy and tractor-trailer truck driving remains a high-demand profession with hundreds of thousands of projected job openings nationwide over the coming years. With the proper training and licensing, a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) can provide access to a stable and rewarding career.

Craft Masters Academy's Class A CDL Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Theory Course is designed to satisfy the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) knowledge requirements under 49 CFR Part 380 for individuals seeking a Class A CDL for the first time.

This online program provides the required ELDT theory instruction and covers all mandatory knowledge areas established by the FMCSA, including:

  • Basic Vehicle Operation

  • Safe Operating Procedures

  • Advanced Operating Practices

  • Vehicle Systems and Malfunction Reporting

  • Non-Driving Activities and Regulatory Compliance

Upon successful completion of the course and final examinations, student records are submitted to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR), satisfying the federal theory training requirement. Students must still complete all required behind-the-wheel (BTW) training and any additional state licensing requirements before taking the CDL skills examination.

This course provides ELDT theory training only and does not include behind-the-wheel instruction, DMV testing fees, or state licensing costs.

What You Will Learn

Students will gain the knowledge necessary to:

  • Understand commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operation and safety principles

  • Interpret and apply Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)

  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections

  • Operate vehicle controls, shifting systems, and combination vehicle equipment

  • Execute proper backing, docking, coupling, and uncoupling procedures

  • Recognize and respond to hazardous driving conditions

  • Understand vehicle systems, maintenance, and malfunction reporting

  • Comply with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations and cargo handling requirements

  • Apply best practices for trip planning, post-crash procedures, and driver wellness

Student Benefits

Upon successful completion, students will:

  • Meet the FMCSA ELDT theory training requirement for a Class A CDL

  • Have their training results submitted to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry

  • Be better prepared for the state-administered CDL knowledge and skills examinations

  • Build a strong foundation for employment in the commercial transportation industry

In addition, enrolled students receive complimentary access to optional CDL Permit Preparation courses, including:

  • General Knowledge

  • Air Brakes

  • Combination Vehicles

  • Tank Vehicles

  • Hazardous Materials

  • Doubles and Triples

Course Syllabus

Basic Operation

  • Orientation

  • Vehicle Controls and Dashboard

  • Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections

  • Basic Vehicle Control

  • Shifting Operations

  • Backing and Docking

  • Coupling and Uncoupling

Safe Operating Procedures

  • Visual Search Techniques

  • Driver Communication

  • Distracted Driving Prevention

  • Speed and Space Management

  • Night Driving

  • Extreme Weather and Road Conditions

Advanced Operating Practices

  • Hazard Recognition

  • Skid Control and Recovery

  • Jackknife Prevention

  • Emergency Procedures

  • Railroad Crossing Safety

Vehicle Systems and Maintenance

  • Vehicle Inspections

  • System Diagnostics

  • Reporting Malfunctions

  • Roadside Inspections

  • Preventive Maintenance

Non-Driving Activities

  • Cargo Handling and Documentation

  • Environmental Compliance

  • Hours of Service Regulations

  • Fatigue and Wellness Awareness

  • Post-Crash Procedures

  • External Communications

  • Whistleblower and Coercion Protections

  • Trip Planning

  • Drug and Alcohol Awareness

  • Medical Qualification Requirements

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Requirements

Hardware & Software

  • PC, Mac, or Chromebook

  • Current version of Google Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari

  • Microsoft Word Online

  • Adobe Acrobat Reader

  • Reliable internet connection and personal email account

All required instructional materials are included with enrollment and are provided online.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites to enroll in this course.

Certification & State Compliance

Successful completion of this course fulfills the FMCSA ELDT theory training requirement for eligible Class A CDL applicants.

Students must also complete required behind-the-wheel training and satisfy all federal and state licensing requirements before obtaining a Class A CDL.

Important: This online ELDT theory course does not meet training requirements for residents of Virginia or Washington, where approved in-person instruction is required. Students are responsible for verifying all licensing and certification requirements with their state licensing authority.

Refund Policy

Due to the nature of ELDT reporting and course access, all enrollments are final. Once access to the course has been granted, refunds, transfers, or substitutions cannot be provided.

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Instructor

This is not an instructor-facilitated course; however, support will be provided through email and/or online forms.

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