Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Passenger Endorsement Course
Since January 2022, all new Commercial Driver's License (CDL) applicants are required to complete Entry-Level Driver Training. If you’re planning to transport passengers, you’ll also need specialized schooling to earn your Passenger (P) endorsement.
Our FMCSA-approved Passenger Endorsement course is designed to help you meet this requirement. Developed by experienced CDL instructors, this course is for drivers applying for a Commercial Learner's Permit with a Passenger endorsement or adding the endorsement to an existing CDL.
SafeMotorist is a national provider of approved driver education and safety training. We offer state-approved teen and adult driver ed, boater education, commercial driving courses, court-mandated traffic school and more.
About the Passenger Course
If you’re applying for a Passenger endorsement for the first time, our FMCSA-approved ELDT Passenger Endorsement course is designed for you.
As of February 7, 2022, ELDT is required for motorists who are earning a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrading from a Class B to a Class A CDL or adding a School Bus (S), Passenger (P) or Hazardous Materials (H) certification for the first time.
Why choose our course?
- 100% online and self-paced
- FMCSA-approved curriculum
- Includes completion reporting to FMCSA
- No Hidden Fees
Learning with SafeMotorist
At SafeMotorist, we make learning simple, flexible and effective. Our courses are designed to help you meet federal and state requirements while giving you the ability to succeed behind the wheel.
When you train with us, you get:
- FMCSA Reporting — We handle submission of your course completion for you
- Start and Stop Anytime — Your progress is saved so you can learn at your own pace
- Instant Completion Certificate — Download your certificate as soon as you finish
- User-Friendly Platform — Clean, simple interface that’s easy to navigate
- Educational and Engaging — Designed to keep you informed and interested
Course Details
The 18-module course is designed to make learning straightforward and stress-free. There are no final exams — just five quizzes per module to help reinforce key concepts. The quizzes are designed to be quick and effective, allowing you to test your knowledge as you move through the material.
Module 1: Post-Crash Procedures
Topics covered in this module include:
- Responding to crashes
- Communicating with commuters following a crash
- Documenting a crash
Module 2: Other Emergency Procedures
Topics covered in this module include:
- Proper emergency stopping procedures
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Evacuation procedures
- Emergency response
Module 3: Vehicle Orientation
Topics covered in this module include:
- How vehicle orientation affects the operation of buses and motorcoaches
- Major components of buses and motorcoaches
- Adjusting driver seats and mirrors
Module 4: Pre-Trip, Enroute and Post-Trip Inspection
Topics covered in this module include:
- Importance of inspections
- What to check for during inspections
- Documentation required for inspections
Module 5: Fueling
Topics covered in this module include:
- When to fuel
- Safe fueling practices
- How to select a safe location for fueling
Module 6: Idling
Topics covered in this module include:
- Effects of idling
- When idling is necessary
- How to reduce idling time
Module 7: Baggage and/or Cargo Management
Topics covered in this module include:
- Handling and securing baggage
- Preventing injuries relating to loading baggage and cargo
- How to secure items covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Module 8: Passenger Safety Awareness Briefing
Topics covered in this module include:
- Purpose of passenger safety briefing
- When to conduct passenger safety briefing
- Content to include in passenger safety briefings
Module 9: Passenger Management
Topics covered in this module include:
- Proper loading and unloading procedures
- Standee lines
- Disruptive passengers
Module 10: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance
Topics covered in this module include:
- Service animals
- Accessibility equipment
- Americans With Disabilities Act
Module 11: Hours of Service (HOS) Requirements
Topics covered in this module include:
- How to recognize signs of fatigue
- Preventing fatigue
- Hours-of-service requirements for drivers of passenger-carrying vehicles
- Documentation requirements for the record of duty status
- Why fatigue is a critical concern
Module 12: Safety Belt Safety
Topics covered in this module include:
- How to properly wear a seatbelt
- Adjusting a seat belt
- Federal regulations on seat belt use in passenger-carrying vehicles
Module 13: Distracted Driving
Topics covered in this module include:
- Define distracted driving
- Explain the risks of distracted driving
- Consequences of being distracted
- Federal regulations on distracted driving
Module 14: Railroad (RR)-Highway Grade Crossings and Drawbridges
Topics covered in this module include:
- When to stop at railroad crossings
- Regulations and procedures for passenger-carrying vehicles approaching railroad crossings
- Consequences for not following regulations on highway-railroad grade crossings
Module 15: Weigh Stations
Topics covered in this module include:
- Purpose of weigh stations
- When to stop at weigh stations
Module 16: Security and Crime
Topics covered in this module include:
- Recognizing criminal activity and security threats
- Responding to crime and security threats
- Responding to injuries
Module 17: Roadside Inspections
Topics covered in this module include:
- Preparing roadside inspections
- What to expect at roadside inspections
- Results of roadside inspections
Module 18: Penalties and Fines
Topics covered in this module include:
- Financial consequences of motorist violations
- Immediate and long-term impacts of driver violations
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs this course?
This course is for individuals who need to earn their Passenger endorsement as part of their CDL requirements. It’s ideal for individuals who are either applying for a CDL with a Passenger endorsement or adding the license to an existing CDL.
To legally transport students to and from school or school activities, drivers need both a Passenger endorsement and a School Bus endorsement.
What topics are covered in this course?
This course discusses emergency procedures, distracted vehicle operation, seat belt laws, commuter management, fueling, idling and more.
How long is this course?
The course takes about three hours to complete. It’s self-paced, allowing participants to complete it at their convenience.
What is the testing process?
The course does not have a final exam. There are 18 modules total, each containing five quizzes to assess student understanding.
What happens after completing the course?
At the end of the course, students will receive a digital certificate of completion. We will report course completion to the FMCSA within one to two business days.
Please note that this course does not provide a license.
Does the course expire?
The course expires 90 days after purchase, so make sure you complete it within that time frame.
Is this course approved by the FMCSA?
The course is approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which ensures you’ll meet federal requirements to earn your Passenger certification. Your state may have requirements that differ from federal standards. To learn more about state-specific requirements, please contact your local DMV.
Can this course be completed online?
Yes, this course is 100% online. Students have the flexibility to complete the modules from any internet-connected device, all at their own pace. Just remember to finish within the 90-day time frame.