In early 2022, FMCSA introduced new Entry-Level Driver Training regulations that set the baseline for training requirements for entry-level drivers. This applies to those seeking to obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL, or obtain a school bus, passenger, or hazardous materials endorsement for the first time.
The Entry-Level Driver Training Hazmat Endorsement Theory Instruction Curriculum is designed to help satisfy the theory instruction portion of the new entry-level driver training (ELDT) hazmat endorsement requirements. To satisfy the theory instruction requirements, this training must be assigned and administered by a school or other entity listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Training Provider Registry (TPR). To satisfy the complete ELDT training requirements, the school or entity conducting the training must provide the driver-trainee "behind-the-wheel" instruction in addition to theory instruction.
Additional Guidance: The 12 mandatory modules must be completed with scores of at least 80 percent in order to help satisfy the theory portion of the ELDT requirements. Mandatory modules include: - Basic Introductory and Operational Hazardous Materials Requirements is designed to teach drivers the basic competencies for transportation of hazmat, including: shipping paper requirements, marking, labeling, placarding, emergency response information, and shipper's responsibilities.
- Reporting Hazardous Materials Crashes and Releases is designed to teach drivers the proper procedures and contacts for the immediate notification related to certain hazmat incidents, including instruction in the proper completion and submission of hazmat incident reports.
- Tunnels and Railroad Highway Grade Crossing Requirements is designed to teach drivers the proper operation of a hazmat vehicle at railroad-highway grade crossings and in vehicular tunnels.
- Loading and Unloading Hazardous Materials is designed to help drivers understand proper loading and unloading procedures for hazardous material cargo.
- Hazardous Materials on Passenger Vehicles is designed to help drivers understand the requirements of carrying hazardous materials that can and cannot be transported in passenger vehicles.
- Bulk Packages is designed to help drivers understand the requirements for transportation of cargo in cargo tanks, intermediate bulk containers, bulk cylinders and portable tanks.
- Operating Emergency Equipment is designed to help drivers understand the special precautions for fires, loading and unloading, operation of cargo tank motor vehicle equipment, and shut-off-shut-down equipment.
- Emergency Response Procedures is designed to help drivers understand the proper procedures and best practices for handling an emergency response and post-response operations, including what to do in the event of an unintended release of a hazardous material.
- Engine Fueling is designed to help drivers understand the procedures for fueling a vehicle that contains hazardous materials.
- Tire Check is designed to help drivers learn the proper procedures for checking your vehicle's tires.
- Routes and Route Planning is designed to help drivers properly plan a route when transporting hazardous materials (hazmat).
- Hazardous Materials Safety Permits is designed to help drivers understand the hazmat permitting process.