There's a new law?
Yes, there is a requirement for those trying to acquire a CDL license to complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) through an approved trainer in the Training Provider Registry. Prior to February 7, 2022, you could train yourself and just find someone with a CDL truck to take you to your road test.
The ELDT regulations set the minimum Federal requirements for training that entry-level drivers must complete before being permitted to take certain commercial driver’s license (CDL) skills or knowledge tests on or after February 7, 2022.
- The ELDT requirements apply to individuals who obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) on or after February 7, 2022.
- The ELDT regulations are not retroactive; individuals who were issued a CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement prior to February 7, 2022 are not required to complete training for the respective CDL or endorsement.
Who is considered an entry-level driver?
Individuals applying to:
- Obtain a Class A CDL or Class B CDL for the first time;
- Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL;
- Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.
Are you an approved trainer?
Yes, we are set up as an approved Training Provider with the FMCSA for CDL-A and CDL-B training.
Your license will have an Automatic Restriction & a Pintle Restriction. (we do not have a manual transmission truck, or do any 5th-wheel/tractor-trailer training)
Where are you located?
We are located in Pelham, NH & Dracut, MA. We perform ELDT for residents of both New Hampshire and Massachusetts.
Which CDL can I get with you?
If you live in New Hampshire or Massachusetts, we can train you for your CDL-A or CDL-B. If you want to upgrade your existing CDL-B to a CDL-A, you would go through our full CDL-A program.
How long does the program take?
There are no minimum hour requirements set by the FMCSA, we do, however, find that most trainees need around 10-15 separate 3-hour sessions to learn all the FMCSA-required material.
We allow each trainee 1 session per day, we do not stack them back to back as we find that 3 hours is the perfect length of time for information retention.
You'll book your first/next session here at our office when enrolling and during your active sessions.
What is an "Automatic Restriction"?
Both of our programs are done on trucks with automatic transmissions. Your license will have an "Automatic Restriction" which means you will not be approved to drive a CDL truck with a manual transmission.
When do you hold classes?
Our training is 1-on-1 and/or small group training, so we don't have any pre-set classes you will need to attend.
We have available training 3-hour slots Monday through Friday that you will be able to reserve based on your own schedule.
We do not hold training sessions from May to October. Registration is open from November 1st through about March 15th when there is available space.
What do you charge?
We charge a fraction of the price most schools are charging. Our current prices are posted on our home page & sign-up info page.
Our flat-price tuition covers our whole program and as many training sessions as you need to be ready for your test. Most drivers are ready in an average of 10-15 sessions, or about 6-8 weeks. Your tuition also covers the use of our trucks and trailers for testing, a sponsor for your test, and when you're ready for the test, we also book that for you.
You're responsible for the DMV/RMV permit & license fees, and ELDT theory training costs.
Also, if you fail your road test then we will charge an additional $150 each time you need to re-test. We will not fail you out of our program and turn you away. You will train again until you are ready.
I'm very experienced already, can I pay less?
Since we already charge a fraction of the price most schools are charging, we can't offer discounted sessions. In our experience, everyone takes an average of 10-15 training sessions to cover all the material regardless of their level of experience.
On the other hand, if you require more than the average, we will not charge you anything additional for extra sessions. Our flat price for training has no hidden fees.
Do you do EDLT theory training?
To allow us to open up more BTW and Range training spots, we do not offer ELDT theory training. This type of training is required by the FMCSA. You can search their database for approved theory training providers, or we can recommend www.ELDT.com which is only $25!
Do you do driving training?
We do a combination of behind-the-wheel road training and behind-the-wheel range training. We also include training videos, books, and flashcards.
How Do I Register?
REGISTRATION WILL OPEN ON NOVEMBER 1ST... TRAINING SESSIONS WILL START BY THE END OF NOVEMBER.
Once you've obtained your permit, you're ready to get started with us. Simply give us a call to sign up. You'll talk to the boss and he will book your first training session.
More information on signing up can be found here.
You WILL have to complete theory training before we can book your skills test. We prefer that you obtain your Theory Certificate before starting with us. An affordable option is www.ELDT.com which is only $25! (We are not affiliated with eldt.com).
Do you do Hazmat Training?
At this time, we do not offer hazmat/hazardous materials training. You would need to search the FMCSA for a provider that offers that training specifically.
ELDT.com also offers a $25 Hazmat Training.
Do you do Passenger Training?
At this time, we do not offer passenger training. You would need to search the FMCSA for a provider that offers that training specifically.
Do you do tractor-trailer training?
We do not do tractor-trailer training. We do not have any 5th-wheel trailers. Your license will have a "pintle restriction".
What endorsements will I have after going through your program?
You will have an Air Brake Endorsement.