On February 7, the Texas Department of Public Safety reminded applicants of a change in the requirements for obtaining a commercial driver license (CDL)
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements to improve road safety.
The DPS news release stated: “Anyone who is either applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrading an existing CDL to a Class A or B, or obtaining a school bus (S), passenger (P) or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time must meet ELDT requirements.”
Before administering a CDL skills test or knowledge test for an ‘H’ endorsement, each state must electronically verify that an applicant has completed the training and certification process.
Applicants seeking to acquire or upgrade to a CDL must book an appointment online. Walk-in appointments are limited for all driver license office locations. Appointments can be booked up to six months in advance for a specific day and time.
Commercial driving schools can register to become an approved ELDT provider through FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR).
Applicants can also find a school in their area through the website.
Marion Skinner, CEO of Texas Advancement Center (TAC), which offers programs for high school students, post-secondary graduates, and unemployed or underemployed adults in the workforce, supports the updates, describing them as a “game-changer” that will help drivers in the long run.
“When it comes to these drivers, I don’t want them to think, ‘It’s more training for us’; we just have to look at the bright side. They want us better prepared when we get out there. A lot of people actually appreciate that,” he said.
