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CDL A Theory ELDT — Choose Your Option
Three options — same FMCSA-approved CDL A Theory ELDT course in all three. Same-day adds priority TPR submission. Bundle adds CDL B ELDT and Permit Prep at the best value.
Who Needs CDL A Theory ELDT?
🚛First-Time Class A CDL Applicants
Any driver applying for a Class A CDL for the first time after February 7, 2022 must complete CDL A Theory ELDT before the skills test.
⬆️Class B to Class A Upgrades
Upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A requires CDL A Theory ELDT — regardless of when you got your Class B or how long you have been driving.
💼New Trucking Industry Entrants
Drivers entering the trucking industry for the first time. CDL A ELDT theory is step one before getting your CLP and starting skills training.
🏢Employer-Required Drivers
Companies requiring CDL A ELDT before hiring. Complete theory online today and keep your start date on track.
Already have a Class A CDL? If you obtained your Class A CDL before February 7, 2022, you are exempt from CDL A Theory ELDT for that license class. However, if you are adding a Hazmat, Passenger, or School Bus endorsement for the first time, the corresponding endorsement ELDT is still required.
What CDL A Theory ELDT Covers
Basic vehicle control & operation
Shifting & backing maneuvers
Coupling & uncoupling procedures
Pre-trip vehicle inspection
Hours of Service regulations
Hazard recognition & safe driving
Cargo handling & weight limits
Drug & alcohol awareness
Non-driving activities & paperwork
All FMCSA Appendix A to Part 380 topics
Final assessment — 80% to pass
Theory only: DLA Academy covers the ELDT theory portion. CDL A applicants also need behind-the-wheel training with a local FMCSA-registered BTW provider — both theory and BTW are required for a first-time Class A CDL. Contact your state DMV for BTW provider requirements.
CDL A ELDT Requirements by State
Find your state's exact CDL A requirements, DMV process, and step-by-step instructions on our state pages:
View all 49 states →
CDL A Theory ELDT — $20 Flat
FMCSA-approved · Auto-submitted to TPR within 24 hours · Accepted in 49 states · Under 2 hours
FMCSA-Approved 5.0 Stars · 35+ Reviews 3,000+ Graduates 49 States
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need ELDT to get my Class A CDL?+
Yes. All drivers applying for a Class A CDL for the first time after February 7, 2022 must complete CDL A Theory ELDT from an FMCSA-approved provider before taking the CDL skills test. This applies in all 49 states DLA Academy serves.
Do I need ELDT if I am upgrading from Class B to Class A?+
Yes. Upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A requires completing CDL A Theory ELDT regardless of when you obtained your Class B license or how long you have been driving commercially.
Does DLA Academy provide behind-the-wheel training?+
No — DLA Academy covers the ELDT theory portion only. CDL A applicants also need behind-the-wheel training with a local FMCSA-registered BTW provider. Both theory and BTW are required for a first-time Class A CDL. Contact your state DMV for approved BTW providers.
How long does CDL A Theory ELDT take?+
Most drivers complete this course in under 2 hours. It is 100% self-paced and works on any device. Your completion is automatically submitted to the FMCSA TPR within 24 hours.
Is this course accepted in my state?+
Yes. DLA Academy is listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry and our CDL A Theory ELDT is accepted at DMVs in 49 states. Washington State is not served. Find your state's specific CDL A requirements at states.academyofdla.com/cdl-a-eldt-by-state.
I already have a Class A CDL — do I still need this?+
If you obtained your Class A CDL before February 7, 2022, you are exempt from CDL A Theory ELDT. However, if you are adding a Hazmat, Passenger, or School Bus endorsement for the first time, the corresponding endorsement ELDT is still required.
Best Value — 3 Courses
Need CDL A, CDL B & Permit Prep Together?
The CDL A & CDL B Complete Bundle includes CDL A Theory ELDT + CDL B Theory ELDT + 119-question CDL-A Permit Prep for $45 — saving $10 versus buying all three separately. Everything from first enrollment to permit in hand.
$45
Save $10 vs buying separately ($55)
Recommended Add-On
CDL-A Permit Prep — 119 Practice Questions
Before your skills test you need to pass three DMV knowledge tests — General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles. 119 DMV-style practice questions with instant feedback and full explanations. $15 standalone or included in the bundle above.
Get Permit Prep — $15 →
Also Need a Hazmat Endorsement?
Many Class A CDL drivers also add a Hazmat endorsement for better-paying freight. Hazmat-endorsed drivers earn significantly more per load. DLA Academy's Hazmat ELDT is also $20 and can be completed back to back with your CDL A ELDT.
Add Hazmat ELDT — $20 →Other ELDT Courses — All $20
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