Everyone: confirm your completion first
Before you book anything, make sure the finish line actually registered. Your training provider must submit your completion to FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR) by midnight of the second business day after you finish. Your state checks that record, not your certificate.
- Wait two business days after passing, then use the registry's Record Check tool to see what your provider submitted.
- Confirm the record shows the right class or endorsement and "theory".
- Check that your name and license or permit details match your license exactly.
- Something missing? Follow our completion troubleshooting steps. RapidELDT customers can contact support.
- Save your course certificate or completion page somewhere you can find it.
Class A next steps: tractor-trailer and combination vehicles
Get your DOT medical certification
Most new drivers heading into interstate trucking need a DOT medical exam before their state issues a CLP.
Pass your CLP knowledge tests
General knowledge, plus combination vehicles and air brakes for most Class A jobs. Use your state's CDL manual. Your theory course covered much of the material.
Book behind-the-wheel training
Range and public-road training with a provider listed on the registry for Class A behind-the-wheel. Verify them first. You must finish within one year of completing theory.
Hold your CLP for 14 days
You can't take the skills test in the first 14 days after your CLP is first issued. Most drivers are in BTW training during that time anyway.
Take the skills test
Your state verifies theory and BTW in the registry, then tests your pre-trip inspection, basic control and road skills.
Class B next steps: straight trucks and large buses
Get your DOT medical certification
Required before your CLP if you'll drive in non-excepted interstate commerce.
Pass your CLP knowledge tests
General knowledge, plus air brakes if your truck has them. Bus drivers also test for passenger, and school bus drivers for school bus.
Book Class B behind-the-wheel training
With a registry-listed BTW provider, within one year of completing theory.
Plan for P or S if you drive a bus
Passenger and school bus endorsements have their own ELDT requirements, including behind-the-wheel training. Class B theory doesn't cover them.
Hold your CLP 14 days, then test
After the waiting period, your state verifies your ELDT and gives the Class B skills test.
Hazmat (H) endorsement next steps
Start your TSA security threat assessment
Apply with TSA, which includes fingerprints and identity documents. TSA recommends applying at least 60 days before you need a decision, because processing can take more than 45 days. Drivers in some states, including Texas, Florida and New York, apply through their state DMV instead.
Study for the hazmat knowledge test
Use the hazmat section of your state's CDL manual. Your hazmat theory covered placarding, shipping papers, loading, emergency response and more.
Take the state hazmat knowledge test
Your state verifies your hazmat ELDT in the registry before it gives you this test. Hazmat ELDT is theory only, so there's no behind-the-wheel portion.
Get the endorsement issued
TSA sends your eligibility to your state, not to you. Your state issues the CDL with the H endorsement once everything is in place.
Mind the one-year window
For Class A and Class B, the clock started when you finished theory. The rules require both parts to be finished within one year of completing the first, so letting it lapse can mean repeating training. Put a reminder on your calendar now, about two months before the deadline.
Quick reference: what's left after theory
| Step | Class A | Class B | Hazmat (H) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Confirm registry record | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| CLP knowledge tests | Yes | Yes | Already licensed or applying |
| Behind-the-wheel ELDT | Yes, within 1 year | Yes, within 1 year | No |
| 14-day CLP wait | Yes | Yes | Not applicable |
| TSA threat assessment | Only if adding H | Only if adding H | Yes |
| State test that checks your ELDT | Skills test | Skills test | Hazmat knowledge test |
Still lining up your behind-the-wheel training? Our guide on starting ELDT before CDL school covers what to ask a school. If you're early in the process, see how theory and your CLP fit together.
Sources
- 49 CFR 380.717: Training certification deadline
- 49 CFR 380.603(c)(3): One-year window
- 49 CFR 383.25(e): 14-day CLP waiting period
- 49 CFR 383.71(h): Medical certification for CLP applicants
- FMCSA TPR FAQ: Training requirements
- FMCSA TPR: Selecting a provider (Record Check)
- TSA: Hazardous Materials Endorsement Threat Assessment Program
Checked October 30, 2026.
Questions drivers ask
Does my ELDT theory expire?
For Class A and Class B, you must finish the remaining ELDT portion within one year of completing the first portion. That one-year window doesn't apply to the hazmat endorsement. More on timing.
Can I take the skills test right after I finish behind-the-wheel?
Only if you've held your CLP for at least 14 days since it was first issued, and your state can see both your theory and BTW completions in the registry.
Do I need to send my ELDT certificate to the DMV?
Usually not. Your state checks FMCSA's registry before your test. Bring whatever your state licensing agency asks for, and keep your certificate in case of questions.
How long does the TSA hazmat threat assessment take?
TSA says processing can take more than 45 days and recommends applying at least 60 days before you need a decision. It sends the result to your state, not to you.