Know the Signs

The nation's truck drivers are in a unique position to spot and combat human trafficking. Familiarize yourself with the signs of human trafficking with help from Truckers Against Trafficking.

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Hazmat Requirements
Moving your CDL to SC
Renew or Upgrade your CDL

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Applying for a CDL

You must complete an Affidavit of Previous Driver's License (SCDMV Form DL-402) when applying for a commercial learner's permit or driver's license (SCDMV Form 447-CDL), if the SCDMV does not have one on file already.

The SCDMV will contact the jurisdiction you're moving from to get information on any and all traffic violations you committed over the past ten years. Your CDL may be suspended or revoked if there are unresolved or disqualifying violations.

Database Checks

The SCDMV will check your driving history in other states using the Problem Driver Pointer System (PDPS) and the Commercial Driver License Information System (CDLIS). These checks happen when you apply for an original commercial driver's license (CDL), renew a CDL, retest for a CDL, or move from a commercial learner's permit to a CDL. 

Disqualifications from holding a CDL

You will not be able to hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) if you have committed any of the following:

  • Drove a commercial vehicle with a revoked, suspended, or canceled CDL
  • Caused a death through the negligent or criminal operation of a commercial vehicle
  • Drove a commercial vehicle without a CDL
  • Drove a commercial vehicle without a CDL with you
  • Drove without a required endorsement

Medical Examiner's Certificate

If you're a commercial driver, you must maintain a medical examiner's certificate that complies with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations if the type of commerce in which you intend to operate requires it. A medical professional on FMCSA's National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners must examine and certify you.

You must submit proof that you are medically qualified every time you apply for a commercial learner's permit (CLP), commercial driver’s license (CDL), upgrade your CDL license, renew your CDL license, change your address, or request a duplicate CDL. 

You may fax your medical examiner certificate to 803-896-2676 or scan and email it to the SCDMV if it is replaced before you need a new CDL.

Social Security Verification

The SCDMV uses the Social Security Online Verification (SSOLV) to check your name, date of birth, and social security number against your Social Security Administration (SSA) record.

If the information you provide does not match your SSA record, you must correct the information with the SSA before the SCDMV will issue you a commercial driver's license (CDL).

This process will impact you if any of the following are true:

  • You are applying for your first Class A, B, or C commercial learner's permit (CLP) or CDL.
  • You are a new resident exchanging your out-of-state CDL for a South Carolina CDL.
  • You are applying for a change in CDL class. For example, if you’re changing from a Class B to a Class A license.

To avoid a licensing delay, make sure your legal name, date of birth and social security number matches the information contained in your SSA record.