New Entry-Level Driver Training Regulation is Now in Effect

After a two-year delay, the new Entry-level Driver Training Requirements have gone into effect. Beginning yesterday, February 7, 2022, all entry-level drivers will need to complete a combination of theory and behind-the-wheel training from a provider that is listed on the new Training Provider Registry.

Providers include both private employers as well as truck driving training schools. As of this article’s publication, there were just over 13,000 providers listed on the registry.

Who Does This New Requirement Impact?

As we wrote about previously, this new training requirement only impacts entry-level drivers who are either obtaining a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, or obtaining a school bus, passenger or hazardous materials endorsement for the first time. Drivers upgrading from a Class B to a Class A CDL will also need to comply.

All other drivers are exempt from this requirement, even if the training program they completed prior to obtaining their CDL didn’t meet the new requirements. Likewise, if you or your driver has a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) that was issued prior to February 7, 2022, you won’t have to complete the new training requirements provided you earn your CDL before the permit expires.

All that being said, the overall impact of this new regulation on the industry as a whole is believed to be minimal. The FMCSA estimates that 85 percent of training programs (including those offered by an employer) already met the new requirements. This means that most drivers on the roads today completed a training program that either meets or exceeds those outlined in the new federal law.

How Can Employers Use the New Driver Training Registry?

 If you are a motor carrier that offers entry-level driver training or a truck driver school that isn’t currently listed, you’ll want to use your Login.gov account to register your training locations as soon as possible. If you don’t, prospective drivers won’t be able to register for a training program with your company.

As part of the registration process, you will be self-certifying that your program meets the new theory and behind the wheel training instruction requirements, which includes:

• Basic vehicle operation
• Safe Operating Procedures
• Advanced Operating Procedures
• Vehicle Systems & Reporting Malfunctions
• Non-Driving Activities, such as vehicle inspection and hours of service
• Behind the wheel CMV training that takes place on a range or public road

While there are no minimum training hours required by the new ELDT regulation, students must be able to demonstrate basic vehicle control skills as well as a mastery of basic vehicle maneuvers.

You can find detailed information on the new training requirements in Appendices A through F in 49 CFR Part 380.

How Can Entry-Level Drivers Use the New Registry?

If you are an entry-level driver and required to take a training program that meets the new requirements, you must use the new Training Registry to locate an approved training program in your area. You can search for providers by the type of training you’re looking for (Class A, Class B, Passenger, School Bus, Hazardous Materials), as well as by Location and Provider Name.

The search results will list all of the in-person, online and traveling providers that meet your criteria. By default, the results will show those programs that allow public enrollment. If you’re looking for employers that have an approved training program, simply uncheck the “public enrollment only” box and the results will include those providers, as well.

If you’d like to learn more about the Training Provider Registry, you can access the new website here: https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/.