How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

Do CDL schools provide certification?

Yes, accredited CDL training schools prepare students for their commercial driver license (CDL) certification exam. After completing an ELDT-approved program, students are eligible to take the CDL skills test at their state DMV. CDL Schools USA lists only FMCSA-verified schools that meet federal certification training standards.

What is the difference between CDL certification and CDL training?

CDL training refers to the hands-on instruction and classroom education provided by truck driving schools. CDL certification is the official credential you receive after passing your state CDL skills test. Accredited CDL training programs prepare you for certification by covering required ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel hours.

How much does CDL training cost in Columbia, SC?

CDL training in Columbia, SC typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000, with an average of $5,000. Costs vary based on program type (private school vs. community college), training length, and included endorsements like Hazmat or Tanker.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Columbia?

Most CDL training programs in Columbia take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Community college programs may take 8-16 weeks. Part-time and weekend programs are available for working adults and may extend the timeline. After training, you must pass the CDL skills test at your state DMV.

Are there weekend CDL classes in Columbia, SC?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Columbia area offer weekend and evening classes for students who cannot attend full-time programs. These flexible schedules allow working adults to earn their CDL without quitting their current job.

How do I verify a CDL school in Columbia is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school's ELDT certification status there. Be wary of schools that cannot provide their TPR registration number or promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks.

CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 29 verified training programs serving the Columbia, South Carolina area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Columbia, SC

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Columbia?We have identified 29 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Columbia area (Pop: 136,632).

Quick Stats

29 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 136,632

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Columbia, SC

CDL License Types

Class A, Class B, Class C

Average Training Cost

$3,000 – $8,000

Program Length

3-8 weeks

Weekend / Evening Options

Available at select schools

FMCSA Registration Required

Yes

Verified Schools

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Columbia, SC?

Students comparing CDL schools in Columbia, SC should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 29 training programsserving the Columbia area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

29 CDL Schools Near Columbia

CDL Training Market in Columbia, SC (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Active Schools8
ELDT Verified8
Average Tuition$3,500
Starting From$3,500
Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Columbia have access to 8 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,500 up to premium programs around $7,200.

Many schools in Columbia offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes.

Many schools partner with major carriers to offer job placement assistance upon graduation.

*Data verified by CDL Schools USA via the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Last updated: December 2026.

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Top Picks in Columbia

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Eclipse DOT

Columbia, SC

class_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_road

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Freighter LLC

CDL Training in Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina offers 29 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you need a Class A CDL for tractor-trailers or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, compare the programs below by tuition, training length, public enrollment status, and available endorsements. Full-time CDL training often takes 4-8 weeks, while part-time, evening, and weekend options may take longer. Before enrolling, confirm the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry and ask whether the school offers job placement, manual transmission training, WIOA or veteran funding support, and behind-the-wheel practice that matches your target CDL class.

Why Get CDL Training Near Columbia?

Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
Financial Aid: Schools in South Carolina often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in South Carolina

CDL training in South Carolina typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

View all CDL schools in South Carolina

Trucking Jobs Near Columbia

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in South Carolina

2,500+

Open trucking positions in South Carolina

Top employers hiring near Columbia: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Browse CDL Jobs Get Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Columbia

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
(Columbia)Valley Coach & Logistics Commercial Driver Training School FMCSA Verified	Columbia	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
(Orangeburg) Valley Coach & Logistics Commercial Driver Training School FMCSA Verified	Orangeburg	Class A	Manual Trans.	View Details
#2 - Palmetto Training, Inc. (Sumter) FMCSA Verified	Sumter	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Columbia Classroom FMCSA Verified	Columbia	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Columbia Yard FMCSA Verified	Columbia	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
1st Premier Trucking Academy FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Ancora for Central Carolina Technical College FMCSA Verified	Sumter	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Ancora for Midlands Technical College FMCSA Verified	Columbia	Class AHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Ancora for Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College FMCSA Verified	Orangeburg	Class AClass BTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Cope Area Vocational Center FMCSA Verified	Cope	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Eclipse DOT FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmat	Evening Classes	View Details
ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training FMCSA Verified		Class A	Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Fast-Pass Trucking Training FMCSA Verified	Orangeburg	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Freighter LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Columbia

Avg. Private School

$5,200

Avg. Public School

$3,300

Price Range

$2,800 - $6,600

Port of Charleston drives trucking demand.

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Columbia

Required for your CDL medical card

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Columbia

9752 Business Park Dr, Columbia

(843) 871-1215

4.5

$117-$179

Walk-ins OK

CVS MinuteClinic - Central Columbia

3302 Corporate Way, Columbia

(864) 461-7489

4.3

$92-$146

Walk-ins OK

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Columbia

5945 Park Ave, Columbia

(803) 413-3506

4.1

$75-$120

Walk-ins OK

View All 5 Clinics in Columbia All Locations

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam typically costs $55-$150 and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & DMV in Columbia

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local DMV office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

Find DMV Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Columbia

How long does CDL training take in Columbia?

CDL training programs in Columbia, SC typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.

How much does CDL school cost in South Carolina?

CDL training costs in South Carolina range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.

Can I get a CDL in Columbia without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Columbia area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.

How do I know if a CDL school in Columbia is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.

Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?

Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.

Can I get financial aid for CDL school in South Carolina?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in South Carolina: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.

What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Columbia?

The CDL driver job outlook near Columbia, SC is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with South Carolina experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.

Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Columbia?

The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most Columbia CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in South Carolina, including training programs in Columbia and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

📚

Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in South Carolina

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Columbia, SC

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Columbia, SC

How should students compare CDL schools in Columbia, SC?

29 CDL Schools Near Columbia

CDL Training Market in Columbia, SC (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

Top Picks in Columbia

Eclipse DOT

Freighter LLC

G and O Transport LLC

Eclipse DOT

Freighter LLC

G and O Transport LLC

The academy

1st Premier Trucking Academy

Spencer Summitt, LLC

Georgia Express Transport LLC

ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training

TRCC Transport INC.

ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

Safe Smart CDL Training

GARDNER TRANSPORT LLC

Roadmaster Drivers School (CSC)

(Columbia)Valley Coach & Logistics Commercial Driver Training School

160 Driving Academy - Columbia Yard

OTF truck & training institution LLC

160 Driving Academy - Columbia Classroom

PRO DRIVING ACADEMY

Ancora for Midlands Technical College

Knight's Drivers Academy

CDL Training in Columbia, South Carolina

Why Get CDL Training Near Columbia?

CDL Training Costs in South Carolina

Trucking Jobs Near Columbia

Compare CDL Schools in Columbia

Tuition Costs in Columbia

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in South Carolina

DOT Physicals Near Columbia

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Columbia

CVS MinuteClinic - Central Columbia

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Columbia

CDL Testing & DMV in Columbia

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Columbia

Essential Reading for CDL Students

How to Get Your CDL in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

CDL First Year Salary 2026: The Reality Check

How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

CDL School Scams to Avoid in 2026

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

The Truth About "Free" Company-Sponsored CDL Training

Why Students Fail the CDL Road Test (And How to Pass)

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