Speeding Up Training without Sacrificing Quality
This guide is written for operations managers in transportation companies facing driver shortages. It demonstrates how Driving-Tests.org’s CDL Premium online training platform can meet all FMCSA training requirements and move candidates through the onboarding process to full CDL licensure in 7–10 days versus the usual 4–6 weeks.
Background
The trucking industry is facing a severe driver shortage. In 2023, the American Trucking Association (ATA) reported a shortage of over 80,000 drivers and projected that number to increase in the coming years. The traditional CDL training process can take four to six weeks or longer, causing major disruptions in delivery services. In 2022, FMCSA’s Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) mandate introduced new, federally required instruction methods that made the training process more difficult to fulfill.
Pain points:
- Severe driver shortage: High turnover can result in significant revenue loss.
- Extended training timelines: The standard CDL training process typically takes four to six weeks.
- Compliance with ELDT requirements: FMCSA mandates that all new CDL drivers complete approved theory training.
Solution: CDL Premium Online Training
To address these issues, many companies are implementing CDL Premium, Driving-Tests.org’s fully online, FMCSA-compliant theory program. The platform is designed to meet these needs, reduce the time to obtain a CDL license, and shorten the training timeline for fast CDL training for new hires by providing the following:
- Self-paced learning, accessible on any online device.
- ELDT certification and automated FMCSA reporting.
- Permit test simulators and state-specific practice exams.
- An administrator dashboard to track candidate progress.
Program Implementation:
- Enrollment of Trainees: New driver candidates are enrolled in the CDL Premium online program and given access to the curriculum from any online device.
- ELDT-Compliant Curriculum: The online coursework meets all FMCSA’s ELDT theory requirements to quickly train CDL drivers.
- Self-Paced Learning: Candidates complete AI-driven interactive lessons, quizzes, and realistic exam simulators at their own pace.
- Instructor Support: Company trainers check in with candidates regularly.
- Permit Exam Preparation: State-specific practice tests and AI-driven question banks are included to fully prepare candidates for the DMV knowledge exams.
Results
Significant improvements can result:
- A 95% or higher first-time permit test pass rate.
- Reduced training timelines from 4–6 weeks to 7–10 days.
- Immediate ELDT certification and FMCSA reporting.
- Improved tracking and monitoring through the administrator dashboard.
Anheuser-Busch’s fleet shows what’s possible. They implemented an online CDL theory program that included local driving courses and an automated reporting system. Connecting directly to FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR), they eliminated the need for manual paperwork and experienced much faster onboarding and passing rates. The company, Schneider, also implemented CDL training that resulted in timelines as short as 3 weeks using an online onboarding and training program. The immediate demand for drivers makes Driving-Test’s CDL Premium online training program a must for transportation organizations.
These accelerated driver onboarding tactics incorporate today’s online tools and capabilities to reduce time to CDL licensure without sacrificing quality or compliance.
Key Takeaways
This guide illustrates how Driving-Tests.org’s CDL Premium online training program can help transportation companies quickly onboard new drivers while maintaining ELDT compliance. The platform provides an efficient, cost-effective solution to the growing driver shortage problem, enabling companies to shorten training timelines without sacrificing quality or compliance.
How Driving-Tests.org Can Help You
Our CDL Premium platform compresses the training timeline using online tools and intensive support. Trainees can complete ELDT theory and be prepared for the official knowledge test in as little as 7–10 days (versus the typical month or more). Incorporating this platform into your training is beneficial to learners and especially helpful in creating a well-rounded training approach for your employees. It also provides these advantageous features:
- Comprehensive CDL Test Preparation: Access to up-to-date practice tests and study materials aligned with FMCSA guidelines.
- Progress Tracking and Reporting: Easily track each driver’s progress and test results to streamline record-keeping.
- Multi-User Management: Add and remove drivers or training coordinators quickly; keep everyone accountable with assigned modules.
- Engaging Mobile-Friendly Content: Drivers can study on their own schedule, reducing classroom time and improving pass rates.
References
Driving-Tests.org. (2025). CDL Premium for Corporate Training.
Driving-Tests.org (2025). How to Build an Effective CDL Training Program (Step By Step).
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). (2022). Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Requirements.
American Trucking Associations (ATA). (2023). Truck Driver Shortage Report.
Schneider (2025). How Long Does it Take to Get a CDL: Five Factors to Consider.
XYZ Logistics Case Study. (2025). Rapid Onboarding Results.
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