Before you buy: have this ready
The training provider has to report your completion with details that match your license. Having them ready avoids an easy-to-prevent delay: a completion that's filed with details that don't match your state's record.
- An email you check every day. Course access instructions go to the email you use at checkout.
- Your full legal name exactly as it appears on your driver's license or learner's permit.
- Your license or permit number and issuing state. The provider includes them when it reports your completion to FMCSA.
- Your goal: first Class A, first Class B, or first hazmat endorsement. Each is a separate course.
- Your behind-the-wheel plan (Class A and B only): where you'll train in person, and whether that school accepts theory from another provider.
Keep sensitive details out of email. Only enter license details inside the course platform, never in a contact form or chat. RapidELDT will never ask for your card number by email.
The seven steps
Confirm ELDT applies to you
It does if you're getting a first Class A or B CDL, upgrading to Class A, or adding a first P, S or H endorsement on or after February 7, 2022. Check the exceptions.
Pick the matching course
Class A, Class B or Hazmat theory. Adding hazmat to a new Class A? That's two courses, reported separately.
Check the provider on the registry
Look up the provider on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry and confirm it's listed for your training. Our courses are delivered by SaferELDT. Here's how to check any provider.
Check out and watch for your access email
Pay once through Stripe-hosted checkout. Access instructions go to your checkout email. Check spam if you don't see them, then contact support.
Work through every lesson
There's no federal minimum number of hours. Go at your own pace, but plan steady sessions so you actually finish.
Pass the assessment with 80% or more
This is the federal minimum overall score. Our free practice questions are a good warm-up.
Get reported and confirm it
The provider submits your completion to the registry by midnight of the second business day after you finish. How to check it went through.
What comes after online theory
| Your goal | After theory is reported |
|---|---|
| First Class A CDL | Get your CLP, finish Class A behind-the-wheel training with a registered provider within one year, then take the skills test |
| First Class B CDL | Get your CLP, finish Class B behind-the-wheel training within one year, then take the skills test |
| First H endorsement | Complete the TSA security threat assessment and take your state's hazmat knowledge test. There's no behind-the-wheel portion. |
Our after-ELDT checklist breaks each path down further.
Mistakes that cost drivers time
- Buying a Class B course when the truck they'll drive tows a trailer rated over 10,000 pounds, which needs Class A.
- Entering a nickname or an old license number, so the registry record doesn't match the license.
- Finishing theory, then waiting more than a year to start behind-the-wheel training.
- Buying from a provider that isn't on the registry, or isn't listed for that course.
- Assuming a CDL school will accept outside theory without asking first.
Sources
- FMCSA: Training requirements FAQ
- 49 CFR Part 380, Subpart F: Entry-level driver training requirements
- 49 CFR 380.717: Training certification
- FMCSA: Selecting a training provider
Checked October 30, 2026.
Enrollment questions
Can I do the whole thing on my phone?
Theory is delivered online, so you study wherever you have a connection. Ask us before you buy if you'll only use a phone, and we'll confirm how the course platform works on your device.
What if my name or license number changes after I finish?
Contact support right away. The provider reports your details to the registry, and your state matches them against your license. Mismatches are easiest to fix early.
Do I need my CLP before I enroll?
No. FMCSA doesn't require a CLP before theory training. If you don't have one yet, the provider will need your current driver's license details. See how to sequence it.
Can someone else buy the course for me?
Yes, but use your own email at checkout so the access instructions come to you. Companies buying for several drivers can request group enrollment.