Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) / South Carolina
2026 data South Carolina board official source

South Carolina Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Operates large commercial vehicles. Federal CDL recognized nationwide.

What the South Carolina data shows for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL)s

Becoming a licensed commercial truck driver (cdl) in South Carolina means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 195 training hours, a passing score on CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 21. South Carolina regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "CDL Training Program".

Upfront cost is $59, with renewal running $37 on a 4-year cycle. South Carolina doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

On reciprocity, commercial truck driver (cdl)s should know: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states.

Licensing Requirements in South Carolina

Education / Training Hours
CDL Training Program
195 hours
Exam Requirement
CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$59
Renewal Fee
$37
Renewal Cycle
Every 4 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
21 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) All South Carolina licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with South Carolina licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in South Carolina? ▼
South Carolina's requirements cover 195 hours of education or training, the CDL Knowledge Tests and Skills Test exam, and an initial fee of $59. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) in South Carolina? ▼
South Carolina licenses commercial truck driver (cdl)s who complete its requirements (195 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the South Carolina licensing board.
Can I transfer my Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) license to South Carolina from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for commercial truck driver (cdl)s nationally works like this: Federal CDL recognized in all 50 states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into South Carolina. Verify the specifics with the South Carolina licensing board.
Does South Carolina require a background check for Commercial Truck Driver (CDL) licensing? ▼
Yes, South Carolina requires a criminal background check as part of the commercial truck driver (cdl) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.