CDL Requirements in South Carolina
Everything you need to know about getting your Commercial Driver's License in South Carolina — costs, tests, training programs, and how to apply at the SC DMV.
Total Estimated Cost
$95 - $125
Minimum Age
18+ years
Renewal Period
8 years
Passing Score
80%
South Carolina CDL Cost Breakdown
Fees charged by the South Carolina DMV for CDL testing and issuance (training program costs are separate).
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application / Permit Fee | $25 |
| Knowledge Test Fee | $10 |
| Skills Test Fee | $35 |
| CDL Issuance Fee | $25 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $95 - $125 |
* Fees do not include DOT physical ($50-$150), training program tuition, or endorsement test fees. Third-party skills test providers may charge additional fees.
South Carolina CDL Requirements Checklist
You must meet all of the following requirements to obtain a CDL in South Carolina.
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Age 18 for intrastate (within South Carolina) driving. Must be 21 for interstate (crossing state lines).
Residency Requirement
Must be a South Carolina resident. SC driver license and SSN required.
DOT Medical Card
Must pass a DOT physical exam by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. The medical card is valid for up to 24 months. Cost: $50-$150.
ELDT Training Required
Since February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training from an FMCSA-registered training provider. Both classroom theory and behind-the-wheel training are required.
Background Check
Your driving record is checked through CDLIS and the National Driver Register. Hazmat endorsements require a separate TSA background check (~$125).
Valid SC Driver License
You must hold a valid South Carolina driver license before applying for a CDL. Out-of-state licenses must be transferred first.
Written Knowledge Tests
You must pass the following written tests at a South Carolina DMV office to obtain your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). The passing score in South Carolina is 80%.
General Knowledge
Air Brakes
Combination Vehicles
CDL Skills Test Components
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days and completing ELDT training, you can schedule the CDL skills test in South Carolina.
Pre-Trip Inspection
Walk-around inspection demonstrating knowledge of vehicle components, engine compartment, brakes, lights, tires, and coupling devices.
Basic Controls
Performed in a controlled area. Includes straight-line backing, offset backing (left/right), and parallel parking. Scored on pull-ups and final position.
Road Test
On-road driving test evaluating turns, lane changes, intersections, railroad crossings, highway driving, and general safe driving behaviors.
Available CDL Endorsements in South Carolina
Additional written tests are required for each endorsement. Endorsements expand the types of freight and vehicles you can legally operate.
Top CDL Schools in South Carolina
ELDT-registered training programs in South Carolina. Verify any school is listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before enrolling.
| School | City | Tuition | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Palmetto Truck Driving School | Columbia | $4,500 | 4 weeks |
| Greenville Technical College | Greenville | $3,400 | 8 weeks |
| Trident Technical College | Charleston | $3,600 | 7 weeks |
| Florence-Darlington Tech | Florence | $3,200 | 8 weeks |
* Tuition amounts are approximate and may vary. Contact each school directly for current pricing and financial aid options.
South Carolina-Specific CDL Notes
South Carolina DMV requires CDL testing at a DMV branch with several approved third-party CDL testing sites. South Carolina has one of the longest renewal periods at 8 years and some of the lowest total CDL costs. The Port of Charleston is a major East Coast container port, and the BMW and Volvo plants in Upstate SC generate significant automotive freight.
CDL FAQ for South Carolina
How much does a CDL cost in South Carolina?
South Carolina CDL fees total approximately $95-$125, making it one of the most affordable states. The $25 application fee, $10 knowledge test fee, $35 skills test fee, and $25 CDL issuance fee are well below the national average.
How long is a South Carolina CDL valid?
South Carolina offers one of the longest CDL renewal periods in the nation at 8 years. Combined with low fees, this makes SC one of the most cost-effective states for CDL licensing.
Is the Port of Charleston a good CDL job market?
Yes. The Port of Charleston is one of the busiest container ports on the East Coast and continues to expand. Drayage, container hauling, and warehousing CDL jobs are plentiful in the Charleston metro area.
Where do I take the CDL test in South Carolina?
CDL tests are available at SC DMV branches across the state, with major testing locations in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and Florence. Third-party skills testing is available through approved providers.
What automotive freight is in South Carolina?
BMW (Spartanburg — largest BMW plant in the world by volume), Volvo (Ridgeville), and Mercedes-Benz Vans (North Charleston) generate massive automotive parts inbound and finished vehicle outbound freight. This creates steady CDL employment in the Upstate and Lowcountry.
CDL Requirements in Other States
CDL Training Guide
Classes, programs, costs, and step-by-step guide.
Read guide →Trucking Jobs in South Carolina
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