Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Transportation
Truck Driver (CDL) Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for truck driver (cdl) in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Truck Driver (CDL) in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
Physical Requirement: Vision test required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
For more information contact the state DMV or https://cms.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/how-do-i-get-commercial-drivers-license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- centrally
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Motor Vehicles
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$51,810 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet South Carolina eligibility requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Motor Vehicles and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in South Carolina
With a median salary of $51,810, Truck Driver (CDL)s in South Carolina earn 10% below the national median of $57,440. South Carolina ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,186Median annual salary
$51,810Hourly estimate
$24.9110% below national median
Difference: -$5,630
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationTruck Driver (CDL) Salary Ranking
#41 of 50 statesfor Truck Driver (CDL) median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $64,890 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $64,720 |
| #3 | Washington | $63,760 |
| #4 | Oregon | $61,180 |
| #5 | Minnesota | $61,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Truck Driver (CDL) licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $51,810 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $49,580 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $56,570 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Motor Vehicles
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $119,810 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $70,800 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $229,870 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in South Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Truck Driver (CDL)s in South Carolina?
South Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Truck Driver (CDL)s.
What education do you need to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in South Carolina?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure in South Carolina.
What is the typical Truck Driver (CDL) salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Truck Driver (CDL)s in South Carolina is $51,810. Salaries range from $38,410 (10th percentile) to $75,360 (90th percentile).
How does the Truck Driver (CDL) salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Truck Driver (CDL)s in South Carolina earn 10% below the national median of $57,440, with a state median of $51,810.
How many Truck Driver (CDL)s work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 32,700 Truck Driver (CDL)s according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Truck Driver (CDL) license to South Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Truck Driver (CDL)s in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is Department of Motor Vehicles. Review agency details at http://www.scdmvonline.com/.
How often do you renew a Truck Driver (CDL) license in South Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.