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. The aggregate working load limit must be at least what fraction of the cargo weight? → One-half
2. What emergency equipment must be verified during a pre-trip inspection? → Fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, and spare fuses (if applicable)
3. Which of the following endorsements does NOT require ELDT training under current FMCSA rules? → Doubles/Triples (T) endorsement
4. What is the maximum height for cargo on most public roads? → 13 feet 6 inches
5. 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
6. In what part of the day is black ice most likely to form? → Early morning and at night when temperatures drop
7. Where must a training provider be registered to legally deliver ELDT? → The FMCSA Training Provider Registry
8. 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
9. 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
10. What is 'cargo shift' and why is it dangerous? → Movement of the load that can affect handling and cause rollover
11. 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
12. 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.
13. Where must a training provider be listed to legally deliver ELDT? → The FMCSA Training Provider Registry
14. What should you do if your drive wheels start to skid on ice? → Ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly
15. 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.
16. What is the purpose of air tank drain valves in an air brake system? → To drain water and oil from the air tanks
17. During an in-cab pre-trip inspection, what is the maximum allowable free play for a 20-inch steering wheel? → 2 inches
18. Which color glad hand or line typically supplies the emergency (supply) air to the trailer? → Red
19. What is 'blocking and bracing' used for? → Preventing cargo from sliding or tipping
20. What is the minimum air pressure required before driving a vehicle equipped with air brakes? → 100 psi
21. At about what speed does stopping distance roughly quadruple compared to half that speed? → Doubling speed multiplies braking distance by about four
22. Which document serves as the legal contract between a shipper and a carrier that describes the cargo being transported? → Bill of lading
23. What happens if a driver tries to downshift at too high a speed in a manual transmission truck? → The engine will over-rev and transmission damage can occur
24. After completing ELDT, who submits the certification to the Training Provider Registry? → The training provider
25. You are driving through a residential area and a ball rolls into the street ahead. What is the greatest hazard you should anticipate? → A child running out to chase the ball
26. A fully loaded CMV traveling at 55 mph will require approximately how much total stopping distance? → 300–400 feet
27. During a pre-trip inspection, how much tread depth is required on the steering axle tires? → 4/32 inch
28. What type of securement is required for metal coils weighing over 5,000 pounds? → Specific coil securement methods with chocks, wedges, or cradle
29. What should a CMV driver do if the vehicle begins to hydroplane? → Ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden steering corrections
30. After the rear of your trailer starts to slide during a skid recovery, you should: → Counter-steer quickly as the vehicle straightens to avoid over-correcting