CDI | Courses & Bundles

Commercial Drivers Institute (CDI) offers a comprehensive selection of courses and bundled training options designed to prepare individuals for CDL written examinations and Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory requirements. Our programs are delivered in a fully online, self-paced format, allowing learners to progress at their own pace while building the knowledge necessary to move forward in the licensing process. Whether beginning with foundational preparation or selecting a complete training bundle, each pathway is designed to provide structured, accessible, and effective learning.

CDI’s individual courses provide focused instruction across key areas of CDL preparation. These programs are designed for learners who wish to build or reinforce knowledge in specific subject areas or progress through training step by step.

Courses include:

CDL Permit Preparation (CLP)
Class A ELDT Theory
Class B ELDT Theory
Endorsement Preparation (Passenger, School Bus, Hazardous Materials, Tanker)
Driver Development Courses (Air Brakes, Manual Transmission, Pre-Trip Inspection, and more)

Each course is structured to deliver clear, organized content with integrated knowledge checks to support understanding and retention.

CDI bundles combine multiple courses into a structured training pathway, offering a streamlined approach to CDL preparation. These pathways are designed to guide learners from permit preparation through Class A or Class B ELDT theory and into endorsement readiness in a cohesive format.

Bundles include:

CDL Permit Preparation (CLP) paired with Class A or Class B ELDT Theory
Endorsement preparation integrated with core CDL training
Structured progression from foundational knowledge to advanced preparation
CDLB with Passenger (P)
CDLB with School Bus (S)
CDLB with Passenger and School Bus (P/S)
CDLA with Hazardous Materials (H)
CDLA with Tanker (N)
CDLA with Combination (X)

All bundled pathways may be paired with CDL Permit Preparation (CLP) to provide a complete, structured approach to CDL training.

CDL Permit Preparation (CLP Training)

Course Description
This course provides foundational instruction required to prepare learners for the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) written examination. Content focuses on general knowledge, safety principles, and regulatory requirements necessary for entry into the CDL licensing pathway.

Course Structure / Modules

CDL Overview and Licensing Requirements
General Knowledge and Road Safety
Traffic Laws, Signs, and Signals
Air Brake Fundamentals
Hazard Awareness and Defensive Driving
Practice Examination and Knowledge Reinforcement

CDL Class A ELDT (Theory)

Course Description
This course delivers FMCSA-aligned Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory instruction for Class A commercial vehicles. Instruction focuses on operational knowledge, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements necessary for successful progression to behind-the-wheel training.

Course Structure / Modules

Orientation and Control Systems
Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections
Basic Vehicle Operation
Shifting and Operating Transmissions
Coupling and Uncoupling
Backing and Docking
Visual Search and Communication
Speed and Space Management
Night Operation and Extreme Conditions
Hazard Perception and Emergency Procedures
Vehicle Systems and Malfunction Reporting
Roadside Inspections and Maintenance
Hours of Service and Compliance
Fatigue and Wellness Awareness
Trip Planning and External Communications

CDL Class B ELDT (Theory)

Course Description
This course provides FMCSA-aligned ELDT theory instruction for Class B commercial vehicles. It emphasizes safe vehicle operation, inspection procedures, and regulatory compliance required for CDL testing and real-world application.

Course Structure / Modules

Orientation and Control Systems
Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections
Basic Vehicle Operation
Shifting and Operating Transmissions
Backing and Docking
Visual Search and Communication
Speed and Space Management
Night Operation and Extreme Conditions
Hazard Perception and Emergency Procedures
Vehicle Systems and Malfunction Reporting
Roadside Inspections and Maintenance
Hours of Service and Compliance
Fatigue and Wellness Awareness
Trip Planning and External Communications

Passenger (P) Endorsement

Course Description
This course prepares learners for the Passenger endorsement by focusing on safety procedures, passenger management, and regulatory requirements associated with transporting individuals.

Course Structure / Modules

Vehicle Orientation and Inspection
Passenger Safety Procedures
Loading and Unloading Protocols
Emergency Procedures
ADA Compliance
Hours of Service Requirements
Railroad Crossings and Safety
Security and Passenger Management

School Bus (S) Endorsement

Course Description
This course provides instruction on school bus safety, student management, and regulatory compliance required for the School Bus endorsement.

Course Structure / Modules

Danger Zones and Mirror Usage
Loading and Unloading Procedures
Emergency Evacuation
Student Management
Railroad Crossings
Safety and Compliance
Route and Stop Procedures

Hazardous Materials (H) Endorsement

Course Description
This course prepares learners for the Hazardous Materials endorsement by covering regulatory requirements, safety procedures, and proper handling of hazardous materials.

Course Structure / Modules

Hazardous Materials Regulations
Labeling and Placarding
Safe Loading and Unloading
Emergency Response Procedures
Security Awareness
Routing and Compliance
Hazardous Materials Safety Permits

Tanker (N) Endorsement

Course Description
This course focuses on the safe operation of tank vehicles, including load dynamics, inspection procedures, and safety considerations unique to liquid cargo.

Course Structure / Modules

Tank Vehicle Characteristics
Liquid Surge and Stability
Inspection Procedures
Safe Driving Techniques
Loading and Unloading
Emergency Procedures

Air Brake Restriction Removal

Course Description
This course provides targeted instruction designed to prepare individuals for the removal of air brake restrictions by developing a clear understanding of air brake systems, inspection procedures, and safe operation principles. Learners will build the foundational knowledge necessary to support successful testing and real-world application.

Course Structure / Modules

Air Brake System Overview
Components and System Operation
Air Pressure and Brake Function
Pre-Trip Inspection Procedures
Identifying System Failures and Warning Signs
Safe Operation and Emergency Considerations
Knowledge Check and Reinforcement

Manual Transmission Preparation

Course Description
This course delivers concept-based instruction focused on manual transmission operation and shifting principles. It is designed to prepare learners for the removal of automatic transmission restrictions by building understanding of gear selection, vehicle control, and operational awareness.

Course Structure / Modules

Manual Transmission Fundamentals
Gear Selection and Shifting Concepts
Clutch Operation and Control
Engine Speed and Gear Matching
Vehicle Control and Smooth Operation
Common Errors and Correction Strategies
Knowledge Check and Reinforcement

Professional Driver Standards

Course Description
This course establishes the core expectations, behaviors, and responsibilities required of professional commercial drivers. It emphasizes safety, compliance, communication, and industry standards necessary for long-term success and accountability within the transportation field.

Course Structure / Modules

Professional Conduct and Responsibility
Safety Standards and Risk Awareness
Regulatory Compliance and Expectations
Communication and Public Interaction
Workplace Readiness and Accountability
Ethics and Decision-Making
Knowledge Check and Reinforcement