Train Eldt Btw Vendor Vetting

---
name: train-eldt-btw-vendor-vetting
description: |
  Use this skill when selecting a TPR-registered Training Provider for behind-the-wheel ELDT training. Covers the registry, evaluation criteria, and common pitfalls.
---

# ELDT Behind-The-Wheel Vendor Vetting

Per § 380.609, entry-level driver training (ELDT) for first-time CDL applicants requires both theory (31 topics) and behind-the-wheel (BTW, 19 topics). BTW must be conducted by a TPR-registered provider.

## TPR registry verification
- Go to tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov
- Verify provider's TPR number is active
- Check effective + expiration dates
- Confirm provider has training delivery capability (instructor + vehicles)

## Provider evaluation criteria
- TPR registration current
- Instructor qualifications (some states require additional licensing)
- Training vehicle equipment (proper safety equipment, instructor controls)
- Course materials (FMCSA-approved curriculum)
- Audit history (any FMCSA findings against the provider)
- Reputation (industry references)

## Cost considerations
- BTW typically $200-800 per student
- Theory typically $50-200 per student
- Bundled programs $500-1,200
- Carrier may pay or split cost with driver

## Common pitfalls
- Provider lists 19 BTW topics but actually covers fewer
- Instructor doesn't follow FMCSA-mandated topic order
- Training vehicle doesn't have proper instructor controls
- Provider's TPR registration lapses mid-training (driver records lost)

## What auditors check (if FMCSA reviews the provider)
- Student records (per student)
- Instructor records (qualifications, training delivered)
- Vehicle inspection records (training vehicles)
- Curriculum content
- Time logs (actual training hours)

## Common high-quality TPR providers
- C.R. England Training Schools (large national network)
- Roadmaster Driver School (regional/national)
- Infinit-i (online + partner BTW network)
- Various trucking-company-owned training schools
- Community college CDL programs

## How Compass tracks
Compass Training + DQF modules:
- TPR number verified on file
- BTW completion date tracked
- Certificate retained in DQF
- New-driver readiness flagged when training complete

## CFR citations
- **49 CFR Part 380 Subpart F**
- **FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR)**

## How Compass surfaces this
Searchable in Compass Ask. Runs against carrier fleet data when invoked from the relevant tracker. Read-only; no actions without explicit user approval.


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## Built by X3 Compass

The AI-powered DOT compliance platform for fleets 1–100 power units. Try a 7-day free trial — no credit card required — at https://x3compass.com/?utm_source=skill&utm_medium=github&utm_campaign=train-eldt-btw-vendor-vetting

X3 Compass turns these skills into a complete operational platform: driver qualification files, drug & alcohol consortium, MVR pulls, hours-of-service tracking, hazmat shipping, IFTA filing, FMCSA audit prep, and DataQ dispute drafting — all CFR-cited, all in one place.

*This skill is published under the X3 Compass open skills initiative. Contributions welcome at https://github.com/x3fleetsafety/skills*