Who this is for: CDL applicants (Class B), fleet managers
Class B ELDT Checklist — Required Training Topics
Class B ELDT covers similar topics to Class A but is tailored to single large vehicles. Training must be completed with a TPR-listed provider.
Checklist
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Differences from Class A ELDT
Class B ELDT does not include combination vehicle-specific topics such as coupling and uncoupling, managing off-tracking with a trailer, or doubles/triples operation. The skills requirements focus on straight truck handling, backing, and Class B vehicle pre-trip inspection items. If you later upgrade to Class A, the Class A upgrade ELDT covers only the additional topics not already included in Class B training.
Who typically pursues a Class B CDL
Class B covers single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more that don't require towing a trailer over 10,000 lbs GVWR. The most common Class B vehicles are dump trucks, concrete mixers, city transit buses, straight box trucks in the 26,001–33,000 lb range, and school buses (with the S endorsement). If you're not sure whether Class A or B applies to your situation, check the GVWR of the specific vehicle — that determines the CDL class requirement.
Theory instruction for Class B — what topics are covered
Class B theory follows the same five-area structure as Class A but removes combination vehicle content. Topics include: applicable federal regulations (Parts 382, 391, 395, and others relevant to the operation); basic vehicle operation for single large vehicles; vehicle systems (air brakes if applicable, suspension, tires, fuel); pre-trip inspection specific to Class B vehicles; non-driving activities including hours of service, accident procedures, and cargo handling rules; and safe operating procedures for urban and highway driving. Applicants seeking Class B with a passenger or school bus endorsement complete additional endorsement-specific ELDT on top of the base Class B program.
What range and road training involves for Class B
Range exercises for Class B focus on straight vehicle backing — into a dock, into a restricted space, parallel parking — without the trailer dynamics of Class A. The vehicle is bigger and heavier than anything most drivers have operated before, which makes low-speed maneuvering in tight spaces the primary challenge. Road training covers urban environments, turns, intersections, and highway operation. For transit bus or school bus applicants, routes may emphasize passenger loading areas and stop procedures. Ask your provider what vehicle type and what road conditions their Class B program uses — the specifics vary considerably.
Proficiency documentation for Class B
The proficiency sign-off process is the same for Class B as Class A: the trainer certifies each required skill and topic, and those certifications form the record submitted to FMCSA. "Proficiency" isn't defined in hours — it's the trainer's judgment that the student can reliably perform the skill. For Class B, the skills that typically take the most time are backing maneuvers and managing the vehicle's length and height in urban settings. Before enrolling, ask your provider how they handle students who need extra time on specific maneuvers. A program that marks everyone complete on the same schedule regardless of ability is a red flag.
Upgrading to Class A later
A Class B holder who wants to upgrade to Class A must complete ELDT covering the Class A-specific topics not already addressed in their Class B training — primarily combination vehicle operation, coupling and uncoupling, and trailer backing maneuvers. The upgrade training must also be done with a TPR-listed provider, and the provider submits the upgrade completion record to FMCSA. The state CDL office will check for this record before scheduling the Class A upgrade skills test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Class B ELDT shorter than Class A?
There is no federally required minimum duration for either. Class B programs are often shorter in practice because the skill set is narrower, but duration depends on the provider and the student's rate of proficiency. Don't choose a provider based on advertised training length — choose based on curriculum quality.
Do I need a CLP before Class B BTW training on public roads?
Yes. Like Class A, a CLP is required before operating a Class B vehicle on public roads under instruction. Theory training and range exercises may be possible before the CLP depending on the provider's setup. Confirm the sequencing with your provider before enrolling.
Does Class B ELDT apply if I already hold a Class A CDL and want to add a Class B endorsement?
Class B ELDT is required for drivers obtaining a Class B CDL for the first time. A driver who already holds a Class A CDL does not need separate Class B ELDT — Class A covers the Class B vehicle class. The ELDT requirement is for initial certification in the applicable CDL class, not for every vehicle a driver may operate within an already-held class.
What if a provider loses their TPR status after I complete Class B training but before the record is submitted?
Training completed with a TPR-listed provider that subsequently loses its status may not be recognized, depending on timing and circumstances. Before enrolling, verify the provider's current TPR status at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. During training, ask the provider to confirm when and how records are submitted — a prompt submission after each phase reduces the window of exposure if a provider has compliance issues.