How to get a CDL in South Carolina

Fees and rules

Issued by

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV)

Learner's permit (CLP) fee

$2.50 (1-year CLP) plus $15 CDL application fee

Knowledge test fee

$2 per knowledge test

Skills (road) test fee

$25 per retest after a failed skills test (initial fee not stated)

CDL license fee

$25 (8 years)

CLP is valid for

1 year; must hold 14 days before skills test

Minimum age (within the state)

18 (21 for driving outside SC)

Where the skills test is given

Designated SCDMV branches, Monday-Friday, by appointment

Medical card

Bring medical certificate if applicable (federal self-certification categories)

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Required for CLPs issued after Feb 7, 2022 to be eligible for the CDL skills test (FMCSA-approved provider)

Official sources

“$2.50 for the CLP which will have a one-year expiration date.” dmv.sc.gov

“There is a $2 fee for each knowledge test taken.” dmv.sc.gov

“You are at least 18 to drive within SC.” dmv.sc.gov

“CDL Application | $15” dmv.sc.gov

“If you fail any portion of the skills test, it is $25 for another skills test.” dmv.sc.gov

“If applying for a CDL, you must take your skills test at one of the following SCDMV branches, Monday through Friday.” dmv.sc.gov