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Curriculum · ELDT-compliant CDL-A

What you’ll actually learn.

Four phases from classroom to open road — the FMCSA ELDT theory curriculum plus behind-the-wheel range and public-road training on real equipment. No filler, no busywork.

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The program

From permit to CDL-A, phase by phase

Exact hours per phase are being finalized — look for the Placeholder: marked items. The structure below reflects the ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel requirements every driver completes.

  1. Phase 1 — Theory & Permit Prep

    Placeholder: hours TBD
    The FMCSA ELDT theory curriculum: basic operation, safe operating procedures, advanced operating practices, vehicle systems and reporting malfunctions, and non-driving activities. You’ll leave this phase ready to pass the CDL knowledge tests and earn your commercial learner’s permit (CLP).

  2. Phase 2 — Range Skills

    Placeholder: hours TBD
    Behind-the-wheel training on a controlled range: pre-trip inspection, straight-line and offset backing, alley-dock, coupling and uncoupling, and confident low-speed control of a tractor-trailer before you ever hit traffic.

  3. Phase 3 — Public Road Driving

    Placeholder: hours TBD
    Real miles on real roads: shifting, lane control, turns and intersections, space and speed management, hazard perception, and driving the I-75 corridor the way you’ll actually run it.

  4. Phase 4 — Test Prep & Endorsements

    Placeholder: hours TBD
    Skills-test polish and CDL road-test preparation, plus optional endorsement prep such as Tanker (N), Doubles/Triples (T), and Hazmat (H). Placeholder: Endorsement list to be finalized.

Core skills

The behind-the-wheel skills you’ll master

Pre-Trip Inspection

The full CDL pre-trip, memorized and demonstrated the way the examiner wants it.

Backing & Docking

Straight-line, offset, and alley-dock backing until it’s second nature.

Shifting & Control

Smooth shifting, clutch control, and handling a loaded trailer with confidence.

Coupling

Coupling and uncoupling a 53-foot trailer safely, every time.

On-Road Driving

Turns, intersections, lane changes, and interstate driving in real traffic.

Hazard Awareness

Space management, speed management, and seeing trouble before it happens.

Study ahead

Free guides in the Knowledge Center

Get a head start before Phase 1. Our Knowledge Center breaks down the CDL permit, the pre-trip inspection, and more — in plain English, verified against the regs.

Pre-trip inspection guide →CDL permit study →

Frequently asked questions

What does ELDT mean?

ELDT stands for Entry-Level Driver Training — the FMCSA standard every new CDL applicant must complete before testing for a Class A or B CDL. Our curriculum is built to meet it, covering both the required theory topics and behind-the-wheel range and public-road instruction.

How long does the program take?

The total program length is being finalized and depends on schedule and endorsements. ELDT sets required theory topics and behind-the-wheel proficiency rather than a fixed national hour count, so training runs until you’re genuinely road-ready. Exact hours and schedule options will be published soon.

Do you help with the CDL permit (CLP)?

Yes. Phase 1 prepares you to pass the CDL knowledge tests and obtain your commercial learner’s permit, which you’ll need before behind-the-wheel training. Our Knowledge Center also has free permit-study guides.

Which endorsements can I train for?

We plan to offer preparation for common endorsements such as Tanker, Doubles/Triples, and Hazmat. The final endorsement list and any add-on details will be confirmed soon.

Ready to start Phase 1?

Drivers helping drivers — that’s the whole idea. Start your application, help fund a seat, or get your questions answered.

Apply to the AcademyFund the SchoolRead the FAQ