South Carolina CDL Practice Test 2026

To obtain a Commercial Driver's License in South Carolina, you must first pass the CDL general knowledge written test administered by the SCDMV. The general knowledge exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions covering vehicle inspection, basic control, safe driving, transporting cargo, and federal regulations. A score of 80% or higher (40 correct) is required to pass.

CDL Classes and Endorsements

South Carolina issues three CDL classes. Class A covers combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR when the towed unit exceeds 10,000 lbs - this is what you need for tractor-trailers and most heavy hauling. Class B covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs such as straight trucks, large buses, and dump trucks. Class C covers vehicles designed for 16+ passengers or those carrying hazardous materials that don't meet Class A or B criteria.

Beyond the general knowledge test, you may need additional written tests for endorsements: Hazardous Materials (H), Tanker (N), Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Doubles/Triples (T), or the combined HazMat-Tanker (X). Each endorsement requires its own written exam, and HazMat also requires a TSA background check.

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Since February 2022, federal law requires Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an FMCSA-registered training provider before you can take the CDL skills test for a Class A or B CDL. ELDT is also required before adding Hazardous Materials, Passenger, or School Bus endorsements. This applies in South Carolina and every other state.

Where to Take the Test

The CDL knowledge test is taken at any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) branch office. Walk-ins are typically accepted, though scheduling ahead is recommended. The test is available in English, Spanish, French, German. Results are delivered immediately - pass/fail shown on screen after completing the test.

Preparing for Your CDL Test

The CDL test draws from the South Carolina CDL Manual and the federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Key topics include pre-trip vehicle inspection procedures, air brake systems, coupling and uncoupling, cargo securement, hours-of-service rules, hazard perception, and accident procedures. South Carolina-specific regulations on weight limits, required permits, and designated truck routes may also appear.

Taking practice tests before your appointment is one of the most effective ways to prepare. Focus on understanding road signs and the concepts behind each question rather than memorizing answers - the real test may phrase questions differently than what you studied.

Retake Policy

The knowledge test costs $2 per attempt, so a retake is $2. SCDMV does not publish a waiting period or an attempt limit for the knowledge test. Road-test waits do escalate: 2 business days after the first failure, 7 calendar days after the second, and 30 calendar days after the third or any later failure, with the same ladder for the CDL skills test (which also carries a $25 retest fee). The motorcycle road test is capped at 3 attempts with SCDMV, after which you must complete an SCDMV-authorized motorcycle safety course.