SCSouth Carolina CDL permit test guide
The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.
- Licensing agency
- South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
- Official CDL page
- dmv.sc.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- dmv.sc.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- dmv.sc.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
The SC manual says knowledge tests may be written or oral, and hearing-impaired applicants may get a free ASL interpreter up to 3 times in 24 months. The hazmat test must be written or automated only.
- Source collection date
Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)
- Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
- Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
- Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
- Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
- Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.
What is different in this state
- Test languages
The SC manual says knowledge tests may be written or oral, and hearing-impaired applicants may get a free ASL interpreter up to 3 times in 24 months. The hazmat test must be written or automated only.
- Knowledge tests
You need 80% to pass a knowledge test. If you fail, you can retest the next day; the application fee covers 3 tries.
- Learner permit (CLP)
The SC CLP expires after 1 year, and you must hold it at least 14 calendar days before the skills test.
- Fees
Application fee $15, $2 for each knowledge test, and $2.50 for the CLP.
- Age
You must be at least 18 to drive within SC and at least 21 to drive outside SC.
- Also important
If you fail the skills test, wait 2 business days after the 1st try, 7 calendar days after the 2nd, and 30 days after the 3rd or later. The test vehicle needs a valid inspection sticker.
Where this state's manual differs
- 5.1.11 The low air pressure warning must come on before tank pressure falls below 60 psi (2017 national text: 55 psi).
- 5.2 Dual air systems: the warning must come on before either system drops below 60 psi (2017 national text: 55 psi).
- 5.3.3 Air brake check: the warning should come on before pressure drops below 60 psi (2017 national text: 55 psi).
State-only topics in the manual
- South Carolina licensing procedures: classes, tests, skills test retest times and score banking, fees, license expiration, restriction codes, transfers and hazmat threat assessment.
- South Carolina railroad crossing violation penalties.
Source collection date:
The three permit tests
General Knowledge
Required for every CDL class.
Mock examAir Brakes
Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.
Mock examCombination Vehicles
Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).
Mock exam7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.