ELDT

General overview found in this link:  ELDT-Applicability-Factsheet_508.pdf (dot.gov)

• After 2/7/22, all new applicants for CDL, upgrade from current CDL, or for endorsement to existing CDL, must obtain training from a registered Training Provider.
• State will not schedule written or road test unless they verify with Training Registry that driver has completed training from registered provider.
• ELDT is proficiency based - not hours-based training.
• Nothing in the testing process at the State changes except State must verify that the applicant completed by a registered Training Provider.

Training Provider Overview:  Training Provider Registry - Training Providers Fact Sheet (dot.gov)

• Anyone can register with FMCSA to become a training provider.
• The process is simple, free, and takes 15 minutes or less.
• As of 2/11/2022 approximately 130 entities have registered in Maine as a Training Provider.
• Training Providers “self-certify” that they meet the requirements to become a training provider.
• Training Providers must follow the standard curriculum of ELDT:  Entry-Level Driver Training Minimum Federal Curricula Requirements (dot.gov)
• Training Provider maintains records of training and successful completion of training.
• Training Providers must also meet the State standards (Maine Chapter 9 rules) set for driver education.

NOTE:

• Instructors do not need to register with FMCSA.
• Training Providers must use qualified instructors.
• Instruction consists of Theory and Behind-the-Wheel.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Hold a CDL of the same (or higher) class, and with all endorsements necessary, to operate the commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for which training is to be provided.
2. Meet all applicable State qualification requirements for CMV instructors. (Exception: This is not required if providing theory instruction exclusively.)
3. Meet one of these:
   1. Have a minimum of two years’ experience operating a CMV requiring a CDL of the same (or higher) class, or the same endorsement; or
   2. Have previously held a CDL of the same (or higher) class; or
   3. Have a minimum of two years’ experience as a BTW CMV instructor.

NOTE:

• Instructors do not need to register with FMCSA.
• Training Providers must use qualified instructors.
• Instruction consists of Theory and Behind-the-Wheel.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Hold a CDL of the same (or higher) class, and with all endorsements necessary, to operate the CMV for which training is to be provided.
2. Meet all applicable State qualification requirements for CMV instructors.
3. Meet one of these:
   1. Have a minimum of two years’ experience operating a CMV requiring a CDL of the same (or higher) class, or the same endorsement; or
   2. Have a minimum of two years’ experience as a BTW CMV instructor.

• Importantly, Chapter 9 Rules would not apply to motor carriers seeking to register as Training Provider for their own employees at no cost.
• Chapter 9 Rules only apply to entities that hold themselves out to the public for remuneration or certification purposes.
• Chapter 9 is hours based and more complex than Federal ELDT.
• Secretary of State’s Office Chapter 9 Rules govern drivers education found in this link:  Chapter 9 Revisions 1-28-2020 Driver Ed_.docx

• Current driver shortage among all carriers.
• Training currently takes 5 to 7 weeks.
• Cost ranges from $2500 to $7000.
• MMTA Program for Interest Free Loans.
• Most small motor carriers used to informally train drivers locally at minimal cost and then assist with license exam at State will not register as a Training Provider.
• Larger Motor Carriers less impacted because new drivers trained elsewhere and are “finished” at motor carrier.
• Public entities providing training are limited. (NTI, Regional Tech Schools, Community College System are most common)
• Training entities have more capacity than demand at this time.
• There is a shortage of qualified Instructors in Maine.
• Even fewer Instructor Trainers (only 3 we know of in Maine).