Program instructors must hold or have previously held a CDL of the same or higher class, with any required endorsements, and meet applicable FMCSA experience requirements, including qualifying commercial motor vehicle driving or instructional experience.

Behind-the-wheel instructors must hold a valid Class A CDL with the appropriate endorsements and meet applicable federal and state instructor requirements. In addition, 5 Star CDL Academy requires instructors to have a minimum of two years of applicable commercial motor vehicle driving or behind-the-wheel instructional experience. Our instructors possess the knowledge and experience necessary to provide instruction in commercial vehicle safety, vehicle inspections, basic vehicle control, range skills, and safe on-road driving.

Students must meet applicable federal and state eligibility requirements for the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) credential they are pursuing. In Indiana, an individual must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) or CDL. Drivers who are 18 through 20 years of age are restricted to operating commercial motor vehicles in intrastate commerce (within Indiana). Drivers must generally be at least 21 years of age to operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce (across state lines).

A Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) is not required prior to beginning the Online Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Theory Course.

Students must have access to a computer, tablet, or other internet-enabled device and a valid email address to access and complete the online course. Students must complete all required ELDT theory curriculum topics and achieve an overall score of at least 80% on the required theory assessment in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements.

Upon successful completion, the student's ELDT theory completion will be reported to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry as required.

There are no specific application deadlines. Enrollment is open year-round, and students may enroll in the Online Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Theory Course at any time.