Class B ELDT in Georgia - City-Ready Path for Straight Trucks & Buses in GA

A Georgia Class B CDL is your license to operate large, single-unit commercial vehicles that power the day-to-day life of cities and towns across the state. With it, you can qualify for roles such as:

• Box and straight-truck drivers supporting final-mile delivery, furniture and appliance transport, food and beverage distribution, and municipal logistics.
• Dump-truck operators serving construction, road maintenance, and infrastructure projects in metro and rural Georgia.
• Transit and school bus drivers moving passengers safely in metropolitan systems and county districts.
• Sanitation and utility fleet drivers collecting waste, recycling, yard debris, and operating bucket or service trucks for power, telecom, and public works.

Unlike Class A, which focuses on tractor-trailers and combination vehicles, Class B is optimized for single-vehicle operations at or above 26,001 lbs GVWR with a towed unit under 10,000 lbs. For many candidates in Georgia, that means a faster “city-ready” path to consistent, local or regional work with schedules that can be more predictable than long-haul.

Can I do Class B ELDT online in Georgia?

Yes-complete theory online, then do your hands-on training with a registered provider

The Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule separates CDL preparation into two required parts:

• Theory (classroom/online): Safety, regulations, vehicle systems, pre-trip concepts, and professional conduct.
• Behind-the-wheel (BTW): On-range maneuvers and on-road driving, assessed for proficiency.

In Georgia, you may take the ELDT theory online with an approved provider. Once you pass the assessments in the online course, your completion is recorded in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) and verified by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) before you take the skills test. Your hands-on BTW portion must be completed in person with a registered training provider; that is true in all states, including Georgia.

How ELDT Nation’s online theory satisfies federal requirements

• FMCSA-approved curriculum: The Class B theory course aligns with the federal ELDT standard recognized in Georgia.
• Automatic TPR submission: When you finish and pass the required assessments, ELDT Nation submits your completion to the TPR automatically, so DDS can confirm your eligibility.
• Unlimited access until you pass: You can revisit modules and quizzes as needed to lock in understanding.
• Assessment threshold aligned to rule: You must meet the minimum passing score to receive credit and unlock BTW eligibility.

What the online theory covers

• Core safety and compliance: Traffic law interactions, safe speed and following distance, space/visibility management, and defensive driving principles.
• Vehicle systems and inspections: Air brakes fundamentals, pre-trip inspection logic, documentation, and defect reporting.
• Professional responsibilities: Hours-of-service concepts, cargo basics for straight trucks, incident reporting fundamentals, and fitness for duty.
• Passenger context for future endorsements: If you plan to add Passenger or School Bus later, theory gives you the baseline vocabulary and safety mindset those roles demand.

What the online theory does not cover

• Hands-on vehicle operation: No online course can replace BTW range and on-road driving. You’ll still need in-vehicle instruction to build and demonstrate proficiency.
• Skills test appointment and vehicle: You must schedule your skills test at DDS (or approved site) and arrive with a suitable test vehicle and required documents.
• Endorsement-specific driving tasks: Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) require additional BTW and testing beyond general Class B.

ELDT: federal rules vs. Georgia specifics

Federal ELDT standard (applies in Georgia)

The Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule creates a single national baseline for how new CDL drivers are trained and documented. Because Georgia follows the federal framework, completing ELDT correctly means your training will be recognized statewide and across the country.

What the federal standard requires

• Two required components:
  1. Theory training (classroom/online) covering safety, vehicle systems, inspections, regs, and professional responsibilities.
  2. Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) training (range + road) that evaluates your proficiency in maneuvering and driving a commercial vehicle.
• Training Provider Registry (TPR) reporting:
  Your provider must be listed on FMCSA’s TPR and must submit your completion electronically. DDS checks this record before allowing your skills test.
• Gatekeeping for exams:
  • For CDL classes (A/B): ELDT completion is required before you can take the skills test.
  • For the Hazmat (H) endorsement: ELDT theory is required before you can take the H knowledge test at DDS.
• Pass/Proficiency expectations:
  • Theory: You must achieve the provider’s passing threshold (commonly 80%) across required topics.
  • BTW: You must demonstrate proficiency, not just seat time. Instructors sign off when you can perform pre-trip, basic control, and on-road tasks safely and consistently.

Bottom line: No matter where you test in Georgia, DDS will only move you forward if your ELDT theory and BTW are completed with a TPR-listed provider and properly reported.

Georgia specifics: what you need to know

Age and driving scope

• 18+ to apply for a Georgia CDL.
• Intrastate only (Georgia-only) until your 21st birthday.
• After turning 21, visit DDS to remove the “Georgia Only” restriction so you can drive interstate.

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) rules

• You must hold a CLP for at least 14 days before scheduling your CDL skills test.
• A CLP issued on or after July 1, 2021, is valid for 365 days, giving you ample time to train and schedule testing.
• Plan your training calendar so your BTW and skills test happen well within that CLP window.

Documents and fees (Commercial Application Program)

• Complete the Commercial Application (CAP) at a DDS Customer Service Center (or be prepared to complete it in person).
• CAP fee: $35 - this covers up to four test attempts. If you fail four times or let 360 days pass between attempts, you’ll need a new CAP and another $35.
• Fee waivers: Certain applicants (e.g., qualifying veterans and school bus drivers who present the required waiver) may have the CAP fee waived.

Self-certification and medical card (med cert)

• When you apply, you must self-certify your driving category (interstate vs. intrastate; with or without medical qualification).
• Depending on your category, you may be required to maintain a valid medical certificate issued by a licensed Medical Examiner from the National Registry.
• Ensure your self-certification category matches your intended job (e.g., intrastate only until 21, interstate after 21) and your med-card status.

Medical certificate goes digital (effective June 18, 2025)

What changed

As of June 18, 2025, CDL medical certificates for Georgia drivers are submitted electronically by your Medical Examiner through FMCSA’s National Registry system. Because of this:

• DDS no longer accepts med certs by mail, fax, email, online upload, or in person.
• The authoritative record flows directly from your examiner → FMCSA → DDS.

This change reduces paperwork and processing errors and makes it easier for DDS to verify your medical qualification in real time.

What you must do

1. Visit a listed Medical Examiner:
   Choose a provider from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. These examiners are authorized to perform DOT physicals and transmit results.
2. Confirm electronic submission:
   At your appointment, verify that your examiner will submit your med cert electronically. No paper delivery to DDS is needed-and won’t be accepted.
3. Align your self-certification category:
   Your self-certification (e.g., interstate non-excepted, intrastate only) must match your medical qualification. If your job type or medical status changes, update both promptly

Paperwork & DDS visit checklist (CAP, identity & MVR)

Step-by-step: getting your Class B in Georgia

Step 1 - Confirm eligibility and plan your category

• Age: You must be 18+ to apply in GA. Drivers under 21 are intrastate only.
• Intrastate vs. interstate: Until your 21st birthday, your CDL will carry a “Georgia Only” restriction. After you turn 21, visit DDS to remove the restriction if you plan to drive interstate.
• Self-certification category: Choose the category that matches your intended work (intrastate vs. interstate; medical qualification). This determines whether you must maintain a medical certificate.

Step 2 - Complete Class B ELDT Theory online with ELDT Nation

• Enroll in the FMCSA-approved Class B theory course.
• You’ll get 33+ video modules, interactive quizzes, and unlimited access until you pass-so you can review weak areas without pressure.
• The curriculum is built to cover all required federal ELDT theory topics in a clear, test-ready format.

Step 3 - Pass theory assessments and lock in compliance

• Achieve the minimum passing score (≥80%) on the required assessments.
• Upon completion: ELDT Nation auto-submits your record to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR).
• Download and save your Certificate of Completion for your personal and employer records (TPR is the DDS source of truth, but it’s smart to keep your own copy).

Step 4 - Prepare for Georgia CLP knowledge tests

• Core for Class B CLP: General Knowledge (Class B).
• Add Air Brakes if the vehicle you will operate uses air brakes (recommended for most straight trucks and buses to avoid an air-brake restriction).
• Passenger/School Bus (P/S) knowledge tests if you plan to pursue those endorsements later (endorsements will still require additional BTW and skills/knowledge testing).
• Use ELDT Nation’s modules and quizzes to target the high-yield topics that appear on Georgia exams.

Step 5 - Apply for your CLP at DDS

• Bring your document bundle (identity, lawful status, SSN, GA residency, MVR if needed).
• Complete CAP (or submit at the counter) and pay the $35 fee (waiver rules apply).
• Pass the vision exam and take the knowledge tests you prepared for.
• Upon passing, you’ll receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

Step 6 - Hold CLP for at least 14 days and practice

• Georgia requires that you hold the CLP for a minimum of 14 days before your skills test.
• Use this window for supervised practice and structured training so you’re fully proficient when test day arrives.
• Remember: a CLP issued on/after 7/1/2021 is valid for 365 days, giving you flexibility for training and scheduling.

Step 7 - Complete Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) training with a registered provider

• BTW covers range maneuvers (straight-line back, offset, alley dock/bus-specific maneuvers) and on-road driving (turns, lane changes, speed control, hazard awareness).
• Your instructor will only sign off when you demonstrate true proficiency, not just hours behind the wheel.

Step 8 - Schedule your CDL skills test (DDS or approved site)

• Once your ELDT theory is in TPR, you’ve held your CLP ≥14 days, and your BTW proficiency is documented, schedule your skills test at a DDS Customer Service Center (or another approved testing location).
• Bring required documents and a representative vehicle that matches the class and braking system you want on your license.

Step 9 - Pass the skills test → Get your Class B CDL

• The skills test includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
• If you test in a vehicle without air brakes, you will receive an air-brake restriction-so test in an air-brake vehicle if your job requires it.
• After passing, DDS will issue your Georgia Class B CDL with any applicable restrictions noted.

Step 10 - Add endorsements as needed (P/S/H)

• Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements require additional ELDT components and testing (and background checks where applicable for S).
• Hazmat (H) requires ELDT theory, the H knowledge test, and a TSA security threat assessment.
• Sequence your endorsements strategically (e.g., complete P/S shortly after obtaining Class B if your employer requires immediate bus work).

Step 11 - Post-licensing: keep your credentials clean and current

• Medical certificate: Maintain it according to your self-certification category. Since June 18, 2025, your medical examiner submits it electronically; monitor your DDS status after renewals.
• Remove “Georgia Only”: On or after your 21st birthday, visit DDS to remove the intrastate restriction if you plan interstate driving.
• Stay compliant: Keep address info current, track renewal dates, and update endorsements or restrictions as your role changes.

Where We Serve in Georgia (Cities & Test Sites)

Comprehensive Georgia Coverage for Class B ELDT Students

ELDT Nation serves students across every major Georgia metro and regional hub. Whether you’re near Atlanta or in a smaller market, our online ELDT theory course ensures equal access to FMCSA-approved training and reporting. Georgia’s logistics, passenger, and construction sectors all rely heavily on Class B operators, making statewide availability crucial.

Class B Program Details, Timeline, and Pricing

What You Get with Purchase

• In-depth concept explanations: Each topic is built around practical knowledge you’ll use on the road.
• Video modules + on-screen text: Visual demonstrations reinforce technical points such as air-brake function, safe turns, and pre-trip inspections.
• Interactive quizzes after each section ensure mastery before moving forward.
• Unlimited access until you pass, so you can review lessons anytime.
• Printable PDF certificate upon completion for your records.
• Automatic TPR submission directly to FMCSA-no paperwork or upload steps.

Once your theory record posts to the TPR, you’re immediately eligible to begin Behind-the-Wheel training with any registered provider and proceed to the Georgia DDS skills test.

Typical Completion Timelines

• Motivated learners: 1–3 days for theory completion and TPR submission.
• Standard pace: 1–2 weeks to finish modules while balancing work or school.
• Full licensing path: After theory, factor in your CLP holding period, BTW training, and DDS test scheduling-typically 3–8 weeks depending on center availability and personal schedule.

Pricing and Payment Options

• Class B ELDT Theory starts at $23 USD (verify current price at checkout).
• No hidden fees: your one-time payment includes full course access and automatic reporting.
• Financing or installment plans may be available; check the enrollment page for details or contact support for group/company pricing.

The combination of affordable entry cost, flexible pacing, and national compliance makes this one of the most cost-efficient paths to a CDL permit in Georgia.

Why ELDT Nation for Georgia Class B Drivers

Proven Track Record

ELDT Nation has over 15 years of training experience and more than 8,000 students successfully certified nationwide. Our structured online system consistently produces drivers who pass their exams on the first attempt and transition smoothly into employment.

Real Career Upside

Graduates frequently secure starting offers approaching $80,000 annually once fully licensed-particularly in high-demand metro markets or specialized operations such as waste management, transit, or construction hauling.
(Actual earnings vary by employer, region, endorsements, and driving experience.)

Instructional Design That Works

• No classrooms or fixed schedules-study entirely online at your own pace.
• Every module includes a video and matching text transcript, improving comprehension and accessibility.
• Quizzes mirror DDS exam logic, helping you memorize key regulatory points faster.

Compliance Made Easy

ELDT Nation is FMCSA-approved, guaranteeing your training meets every federal requirement.
Our system instantly reports your completion to TPR, issues a downloadable certificate, and eliminates manual submission errors that could delay your test eligibility.