ELDT Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ELDT facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. After coupling, the electrical (pigtail) cord should be: → Firmly connected and secured with no slack dragging
2. The aggregate working load limit must be at least what fraction of the cargo weight? → One-half
3. If a state agency cannot find a trainee's ELDT record in the registry, what is likely the cause? → The provider has not yet submitted the completion record
4. What emergency equipment must be verified during a pre-trip inspection? → Fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, and spare fuses (if applicable)
5. Which of the following endorsements does NOT require ELDT training under current FMCSA rules? → Doubles/Triples (T) endorsement
6. What is the maximum height for cargo on most public roads? → 13 feet 6 inches
7. What should the driver check about the emergency equipment during a pre-trip? → That the fire extinguisher is charged, and spare fuses and warning triangles are present
8. You can spot a trailer jackknife starting by: → Checking your mirrors and seeing the trailer swinging out
9. What does it indicate if the kingpin does not lock into the fifth wheel jaws when you back under the trailer? → The trailer may be too high, too low, or the fifth wheel jaws may be worn or damaged
10. In what part of the day is black ice most likely to form? → Early morning and at night when temperatures drop
11. Where must a training provider be registered to legally deliver ELDT? → The FMCSA Training Provider Registry
12. When did the federal ELDT regulations take effect? → February 7, 2022
13. After fully coupling a tractor to a trailer, what is the correct procedure for raising the landing gear? → Raise it completely and secure the crank handle
14. How long should a driver wait after the air compressor builds pressure before performing a brake check? → Until the governor cuts out around 125 psi
15. How should you adjust your following distance in rain or fog? → Increase it to allow more stopping time
16. What is 'cargo shift' and why is it dangerous? → Movement of the load that can affect handling and cause rollover
17. When traveling on a downgrade, which technique helps a CMV driver maintain a safe, controlled speed without overheating the brakes? → Using a lower gear and applying the brakes in short, firm intervals
18. What is brake fade and when does it occur? → Loss of braking power from overheating on long downgrades
19. Which of the following actions is a critical technique for preventing skids while descending a long, steep grade? → Selecting an appropriate low gear before starting the descent.
20. What is the purpose of a post-trip inspection? → To identify defects that developed during the trip and report them for repair
21. Where must a training provider be listed to legally deliver ELDT? → The FMCSA Training Provider Registry
22. What should you do if your drive wheels start to skid on ice? → Ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly
23. What is the primary purpose of performing a 'tug test' after coupling? → To ensure the fifth wheel's locking jaws have securely engaged the trailer's kingpin.
24. What is the purpose of air tank drain valves in an air brake system? → To drain water and oil from the air tanks
25. During an in-cab pre-trip inspection, what is the maximum allowable free play for a 20-inch steering wheel? → 2 inches
26. Which action best helps prevent skids before they start? → Adjusting speed and following distance to match conditions
27. Which color glad hand or line typically supplies the emergency (supply) air to the trailer? → Red
28. You notice a large puddle spanning your lane ahead after a storm. What is the safest action? → Slow down before reaching it since depth and hazards are unknown
29. What is 'blocking and bracing' used for? → Preventing cargo from sliding or tipping
30. What is the minimum air pressure required before driving a vehicle equipped with air brakes? → 100 psi