Like most cities, truck drivers in Charleston, South Carolina, have a better chance of obtaining a commercial driver’s license if they attend a comprehensive training program in preparation. They are also more likely to enjoy a long, successful career this way.
Luckily, Charleston and its surrounding areas boast prominent and high-quality truck driving training programs.
Finding these programs and picking out the very best can be tough, but that is why we are here. In the sections below, we have provided a curated list containing the most notable truck driving schools for aspiring truck drivers in Charleston to consider.
These programs have been selected to meet several quality requirements, including a comprehensive training curriculum, modern facilities, and experienced instructors.
However, before we reveal the list, here is a quick breakdown of the considerations involved in becoming a truck driver in Charleston.
How to Become a Truck Driver in Charleston
The city of Charleston and the state of South Carolina ask that candidates must be at least 18 years old to acquire a commercial driver’s license. This will allow them to drive within the state.
Those wishing to drive outside the state or handle hazardous materials must be at least 21.
Training programs like those listed below prepare students for the commercial driver’s license test and their upcoming jobs. Some also provide job placement assistance thanks to their connections with trucking companies across the city and state in general.
Candidates are expected to participate in knowledge and skills tests for their CDL tests. The CDL test includes an application fee of $15 and a $12.5 fee for the actual CDL.
Candidates don’t have to pay for their skills test the first time. However, every retake will cost them $25.
Top Truck Driving Schools in Charleston, South Carolina
The following options are some of the most notable training programs for future truck drivers in Charleston, South Carolina.
Miller-Motte Technical College
Charleston, SC Online + Campus
Miller-Motte Technical College is one of the most popular destinations for aspiring truck drivers in Charleston to receive training. The school offers training only in the class A CDL category for tractor-trailer and heavy truck drivers.
Tuition
$8,785 - $10,440Contact
(800) 705-9182
info@miller-motte.edu
Trident Technical College
North Charleston, SC Online + Campus
Trident Technical College offers a commercial truck driving program courtesy of the workforce department. Applicants who are accepted here get a chance to receive the skills necessary to secure employment and earn a certificate that may give them an edge over the competition.
Tuition
$5,059 - $8,606Contact
(877) 349-7184
admissions@tridenttech.edu
Palmetto Training Inc
North Charleston, SC Campus Only
Palmetto Training Inc, also in North Charleston, offers a CDL program known for its effective job placement assistance to all graduates. To apply successfully, candidates must be 18 years old.
Tuition
$5,000 - $5,900 per ProgramContact
(843) 538-2090
palmettotraining.sc@gmail.com
Truck Driver Institute
North Charleston, SC Campus Only
Interested individuals may also begin their truck driving careers in Charleston by applying for the 3-week training program offered by Truck Driver Institute right in the heart of the city.
Tuition
$7,600 - $8,500Contact
(800) 848-7364
York Technical College
Rock Hill, SC Online + Campus
York Technical College is known for theoretical and practical education, but the school also offers a few hands-on programs, including a CDL training program. The program teaches skills only in the class A category.
Students who obtain CDL training from here will likely need help obtaining their licenses and securing employment.
Tuition
$4,416 - $9,720Contact
(803) 327-8008
enrollmentservices@yorktech.edu
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: