How long does ELDT take?
ELDT theory online takes most drivers two to three hours for Class A, about two hours for Class B and hazmat, and 60 to 90 minutes for passenger and the B to A upgrade. There is no minimum seat time in the federal rule; you finish when you pass every section. Behind-the-wheel has no federal hour minimum either, but you must hold your permit 14 days before the skills test, and Nixon's standard package is 15 hours of truck time over about two weeks.
Theory time by course
- Class A: 2-3 hours
- Class B: about 2 hours
- Class B to A upgrade: 1-2 hours
- Hazmat: about 2 hours
- Passenger: 1-2 hours
You can stop and resume; nothing forces you to finish in one sitting.
Why some schools take weeks for theory
Some providers teach theory in a classroom on a fixed schedule. The rule does not require that. Online theory lets you finish tonight and book your DMV knowledge test tomorrow.
The whole CDL timeline at Nixon
Theory tonight, permit within a week, 14-day permit hold while you train, skills test through the school. Most students finish in three to four weeks.
Related questions
Does ELDT have a minimum number of hours?
No. The federal rule is performance-based. You must demonstrate proficiency in every topic, not sit for a set number of hours.
How fast is the record filed?
ELDT365 files your theory completion to the FMCSA registry the moment you finish, so the DMV can see it the same day.
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.