How much does CDL training cost in Chester, SC?

CDL training in Chester, 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 Chester?

Most CDL training programs in Chester 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 Chester, SC?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Chester 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 Chester 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 32 verified training programs serving the Chester, South Carolina area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Chester, SC

Name: CDL Schools in Chester, SC
Creator: CDL Schools USA
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Chester?We have identified 32 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Chester area (Pop: 5,270).

Quick Stats

32 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 5,270

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Chester, 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 Chester, SC?

Students comparing CDL schools in Chester, 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 32 training programsserving the Chester area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

32 CDL Schools Near Chester

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Top Picks in Chester

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Neely Shaw CDL's, LLC

Gaffney, SC

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Ancora for Midlands Technical College

Columbia, SC

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Knight's Drivers Academy

Columbia, SC

Call Now

Neely Shaw CDL's, LLC

Gaffney, SC

33.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

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Ancora for Midlands Technical College

Columbia, SC

44.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Knight's Drivers Academy

Columbia, SC

45.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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OTF truck & training institution LLC

Columbia, SC

45.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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160 Driving Academy - Columbia Classroom

Columbia, SC

46.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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(Columbia)Valley Coach & Logistics Commercial Driver Training School

Columbia, SC

47.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

+1 XXX-XXX-XXXX

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ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory

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TRCC Transport INC.

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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GARDNER TRANSPORT LLC

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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1st Premier Trucking Academy

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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Spencer Summitt, LLC

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory

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G and O Transport LLC

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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Safe Smart CDL Training

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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Freighter LLC

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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The academy

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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Eclipse DOT

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

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Georgia Express Transport LLC

Chester, SC

49.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verifiedclass_a_theoryclass_a_behind_the_wheel_rangeclass_a_behind_the_wheel_public_roadclass_b_theory

York Technical Community College

Rock Hill, SC

18.3 miles away

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South Carolina Rural Water Association

Lancaster, SC

24.9 miles away

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Showing 20 of 32 schools

CDL Training in Chester, South Carolina

Chester, South Carolina offers 32 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 Chester?

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 Chester

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 Chester: 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.

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Compare CDL Schools in Chester

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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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
160 Driving Academy - Columbia Classroom FMCSA Verified	Columbia	Class AClass B	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 Midlands Technical College FMCSA Verified	Columbia	Class AHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Big Rig Academy FMCSA Verified	Monroe	Class AClass BTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Central Piedmont Community College - Harper FMCSA Verified	Charlotte	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
City Works FMCSA Verified	Belmont	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes
CL Driving School FMCSA Verified	Indian Trail	Class AClass BTanker
CL Driving School FMCSA Verified	Charlotte	Class AClass BTanker
Cleveland Community College FMCSA Verified	Shelby	Class A	Evening Classes
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
Freighter LLC FMCSA Verified		Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
G and O Transport LLC FMCSA Verified		Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Chester

Avg. Private School

$5,200

Avg. Public School

$3,300

Price Range

$2,800 - $6,600

Port of Charleston drives trucking demand.

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DOT Physicals Near Chester

Required for your CDL medical card

PrimeLabs Testing and Screening

2424 India Hook Rd Ste 140, Rock Hill

(803) 366-7210

4.9

DOT Health Services

534 River Crossing Dr Ste 301, Fort Mill

(803) 672-5001

4.6

Concentra Urgent Care

1393 Celanese Rd, Rock Hill

(803) 329-3103

4.3

View All 14 Clinics in Chester 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 Chester

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

Find DMV Office

Required Online Compliance Training

Before driving for a fleet operating out of Chester, most employers require current DOT/FMCSA certifications. Complete training online, at your own pace.

DOT Reasonable Suspicion Hazmat Awareness Hazmat Recurrent Defensive Driving HIPAA for Couriers Heat Stress & Slip/Trip Dry Ice Handling HOS / ELD Compliance Lithium Battery Shipping Bloodborne Pathogens Cargo Securement FSMA Sanitary Transport Forklift Certification

View All Certification Courses

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Chester

How long does CDL training take in Chester?

CDL training programs in Chester, 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 Chester without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Chester 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 Chester 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 Chester?

The CDL driver job outlook near Chester, 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 Chester?

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 Chester 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 Chester 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 Chester, SC

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Chester, SC

How should students compare CDL schools in Chester, SC?

32 CDL Schools Near Chester

Top Picks in Chester

Neely Shaw CDL's, LLC

Ancora for Midlands Technical College

Knight's Drivers Academy

Neely Shaw CDL's, LLC

Ancora for Midlands Technical College

Knight's Drivers Academy

OTF truck & training institution LLC

160 Driving Academy - Columbia Classroom

(Columbia)Valley Coach & Logistics Commercial Driver Training School

ELDT Academy, LLC - Travelling CDL Instructors

TRCC Transport INC.

GARDNER TRANSPORT LLC

1st Premier Trucking Academy

Spencer Summitt, LLC

G and O Transport LLC

Safe Smart CDL Training

Freighter LLC

The academy

Eclipse DOT

ELDT Solutions - On Site CDL Training

Georgia Express Transport LLC

York Technical Community College

South Carolina Rural Water Association

CDL Training in Chester, South Carolina

Why Get CDL Training Near Chester?

CDL Training Costs in South Carolina

Trucking Jobs Near Chester

Compare CDL Schools in Chester

Tuition Costs in Chester

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in South Carolina

DOT Physicals Near Chester

PrimeLabs Testing and Screening

DOT Health Services

Concentra Urgent Care

CDL Testing & DMV in Chester

Required Online Compliance Training

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Chester

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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