Do I need ELDT to get a CDL in California?
Yes. Since February 7, 2022 the California DMV will not administer the Class A or Class B knowledge test, the Class B to A upgrade test, or the hazmat, passenger or school bus endorsement test until a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry has filed your ELDT completion. It applies to everyone, including drivers who only plan to drive locally.
What California checks and when
The DMV checks the federal registry at two points: before your permit knowledge test (theory record) and before your skills test (behind-the-wheel record). If either is missing you will be turned away, so complete theory before you book the knowledge test.
The order that keeps your timeline short
- Complete ELDT theory online (about 2 hours).
- Pass the knowledge test at the DMV and get your commercial learner permit.
- Hold the permit at least 14 days (federal minimum) while you train behind-the-wheel at Nixon.
- Take the DMV skills test through the school.
Who does not need it
You are exempt if you already held that class or endorsement before February 7, 2022. Adding tanker or doubles/triples never requires ELDT.
Related questions
Can I take the California CDL permit test without ELDT?
No. The DMV verifies the registry before the knowledge test. The one exception is if you are grandfathered from before February 7, 2022.
Does Nixon Trucking School do the theory part?
Nixon students complete theory online through ELDT365, an FMCSA-registered provider, then do behind-the-wheel training at the Nixon yard in Pomona.
Reviewed September 2026 by Nixon Trucking School, Pomona CA. Fees quoted for the DMV and TSA change; check dmv.ca.gov and tsa.gov for current amounts.