Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)
The ELDT regulations establish a Federal standard for training CDL applicants. Applicants must successfully complete this training with a registered training provider before they will be permitted to take the CDL skills test or, in the case of the hazardous materials endorsement, the knowledge test. Drivers can search for a training provider using FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov). For more information, see the FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training page.
Entry-level drivers are subject to the requirements in the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations. This applies to drivers seeking to:
- Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time;
- Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL; or
- Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.
Have you already completed ELDT? Check your status here.
Training Providers
Training Providers must follow steps through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to appear in the Training Provider Registry, and then can electronically submit driver training certification records as required by the ELDT regulations. Visit the Provider section of the Training Provider Registry for more information.
In addition the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (RI DMV) and the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner require providers apply for additional exemptions and/or approvals to be eligible to provide training in Rhode Island. These applications (RI OPC ELDT Exemption Request and RI DMV Affidavit) must be submitted to DMV.ELDT@dmv.ri.gov and renewed on a yearly basis.
Providers must register with FMCSA and self-certify they meet applicable Federal and State training requirements. Registering your company and location(s) is necessary to appear in the Training Provider Registry and to submit driver training certification information.
The RI DMV will verify that certification information has been submitted to the Registry before allowing the driver to take the required CDL skills or knowledge test.
The FMCSA or RI DMV does not approve or certify Providers. FMCSA and RI DMV approve applications for Providers to be listed on the Training Provider Registry. No Provider should represent their entity as FMCSA or RI DMV approved or certified.
Human Trafficking Education Requirement
Starting June 13, 2025, industry-specific training on the recognition, prevention, and reporting of human trafficking will be required for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) programs, in accordance with the Rhode Island Uniform Commercial Driver’s License Act. To meet the curriculum requirements outlined in Rhode Island General Law 31-10.3-13.1, CDL programs may have employees complete a free online certification course titled How Over-the-Road Truckers Can Combat Human Trafficking. This course is offered by the non-profit organization Truckers Against Trafficking.
Commonly Used Forms