Passing Your CDL: A Comprehensive Guide
ONLINE CDL TRAINING STARTS WITH ELDT
If you’re aiming to become a professional driver, understanding the process is crucial. From deciding on the type of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) you need, to completing the required training, this guide will walk you through the five essential steps for passing your CDL.
Step 1: Pick Your CDL and Endorsement
Begin by deciding which type of CDL and endorsements you’ll need:
- Class A CDL: Covers any combination of vehicles with a weight rating over 26,001 pounds, inclusive of a towed unit over 10,000 pounds. Typical vehicles include over-the-road dry vans and tank trucks.
- Class B CDL: Covers any single vehicle with a weight rating over 26,001 pounds or a vehicle towing another vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds. Examples include box trucks, coaches, and school buses.
- Endorsements: Required for specialized transport such as Doubles and Triples (T), Passengers (P), Tanks (N), Hazardous Materials (H), and School Bus (S).
Step 2: Get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
To obtain your CDL, you’ll need a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP):
- Requirements: Hold the CLP for at least 14 days, check your state’s Department of Public Safety for specific criteria, and undergo a physical to get your DOT medical card.
- Preparation: INFINIT-I’s Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory training can help you prepare for the CLP exam. Completing this training is also a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirement.
Step 3: Complete Required CDL Training (ELDT)
Next, complete FMCSA-mandated ELDT:
- FMCSA Requirements: As of February 7, 2022, all new and upgraded CDL holders must complete both theory and behind-the-wheel training from an approved provider.
- INFINIT-I Training: Our FMCSA-approved ELDT theory training covers Class A, Class B, Passenger Endorsement, School Bus Endorsement, and HazMat Endorsement. Training records are automatically submitted to the FMCSA, ensuring compliance without extra paperwork.
Step 4: Schedule and Take the Skills Tests
After completing your CLP and ELDT, you need to pass the Skills Test:
- Components: The Skills Test includes a Vehicle Inspection Test, Basic Controls Test, and Road Test.
- Test Details: Common tasks include pre-trip inspection, parallel parking, off-set backing, straight-line backing, shifting gears, lane changes, and more.
Step 5: Congratulations! You Have Your CDL!
After passing the Skills Test, you’ll receive your CDL:
- Job Hunting: Seek employment with companies that prioritize driver well-being and safety.
- Age and Experience: You must be 21 to drive interstate; many companies prefer drivers with at least 2 years of experience. Younger drivers can start with intrastate jobs or explore the Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program.
INFINIT-I’s Fast, Easy Online CDL Training
FMCSA Approved
We are an approved theory training provider on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. Our training is accessible online and via apps, making it convenient to complete at your own pace.
Online & App Access
Complete your training anytime, anywhere with our user-friendly online platform and mobile app.
Short & To-the-Point Videos
Our training includes short, under-10-minute videos with quizzes to break up study time and enhance comprehension.
Quick to Complete
Finish INFINIT-I’s ELDT theory training in under 12 hours. We provide instant certificates and automatic reporting to the FMCSA.
CDL Training for $197
Get comprehensive, FMCSA-approved ELDT theory training for only $197. This includes access to training for Class A, Class B, and various endorsements for one year. Start CDL Training Now
Included CDL Training Topics
- Class A and B Training: Covers driving safety, cargo transport, vehicle inspections, and airbrakes.
- Endorsements: Topics include hazardous materials, passenger transport, and school bus safety.
Prepare for the Commercial Learners Permit Test with CDL Training
Thousands of drivers have improved their CLP exam pass rates with our ELDT courses. Each lesson is designed to prepare you for your CLP and CDL, helping you kill two birds with one stone.
Finish CDL Training in Under 12 Hours
Our microlearning method with short videos and quizzes has been proven to improve comprehension and save time. You’ll receive a certificate upon completion, and we’ll handle all the documentation reporting to the FMCSA.
Infinit-I Online CDL Training At-A-Glance
Enjoy 24/7 access for one year, short videos meeting FMCSA requirements, quizzes, certificates, and automatic FMCSA reporting—all for $197.
Train Anytime, Anywhere On Your Schedule
Complete your ELDT theory training on a computer, tablet, or smartphone, and be ready for the behind-the-wheel training and skills test.
Find a Job
After obtaining your CDL, explore job opportunities on sites like indeed.com, ziprecruiter.com, simplyhired.com, and cdljobs.com.
Passing your CDL is an achievable goal with the right preparation and training. Start your journey with INFINIT-I today and get on the road to a successful driving career.
FAQs
What is the first step to getting a CDL?
The first step is to decide which type of CDL and endorsements you’ll need.
What are the types of CDLs available?
There are two main types: Class A CDL and Class B CDL.
What does a Class A CDL cover?
A Class A CDL covers any combination of vehicles with a weight rating over 26,001 pounds, inclusive of a towed unit over 10,000 pounds.
What does a Class B CDL cover?
A Class B CDL covers any single vehicle with a weight rating over 26,001 pounds or a vehicle towing another vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds.
What are some examples of endorsements?
Endorsements include Doubles and Triples (T), Passengers (P), Tanks (N), Hazardous Materials (H), and School Bus (S).
What is a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)?
A CLP is a prerequisite to obtaining your CDL and must be held for at least 14 days.
What do you need to get a CLP?
You need to check your state’s Department of Public Safety for specific criteria and undergo a physical to get your DOT medical card.
What is the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)?
ELDT is a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirement for all new and upgraded CDL holders, covering both theory and behind-the-wheel training.
When did the ELDT requirement become effective?
The ELDT requirement became effective on February 7, 2022.
What does the Skills Test for a CDL include?
The Skills Test includes a Vehicle Inspection Test, Basic Controls Test, and Road Test.
How can INFINIT-I’s training help you prepare for your CDL?
INFINIT-I’s FMCSA-approved ELDT theory training helps you prepare for the CLP exam and covers various endorsements.
How long does it take to complete INFINIT-I’s ELDT theory training?
You can complete the training in under 12 hours.
How much does INFINIT-I’s online CDL training cost?
The training costs $197 and includes access to training for Class A, Class B, and various endorsements for one year.
What do you get upon completing INFINIT-I’s training?
You receive a certificate upon completion, and all training records are automatically submitted to the FMCSA.
What age must you be to drive interstate with a CDL?
You must be 21 years old to drive interstate.
