South Carolina Driver’s License Types (And How to Get Each One)

In South Carolina, there are 8 types of driver’s licenses — it can be easy to get confused. 

Which one do you need? 

And how do you get that specific license type?

We’re going to answer those questions. 

Here, we’re going to take you through the South Carolina driver’s license types — we’ll break down the different classes, as well as give you an overview of how to get them. 

So let’s jump right in!

What are the Types of Driver’s Licenses in South Carolina?

As we mentioned, South Carolina has 8 driver’s license classes. These are:

• Class D
• Class E
• Class F
• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• Class C CDL
• Class G
• Class M

Yes, it’s a little overwhelming, so it’s better to look at it as three groups — non-commercial, commercial, and motorcycle (or moped) licenses.

Let’s explore the details so you can tell which is which.

Non-Commercial Driver’s Licenses

Non-commercial licenses are for vehicles used for personal purposes. 

Three classes fall under this category (not including licenses for motorcycles and mopeds), Class D, Class E, and Class F. 

Class D

You’re probably referring to a Class D when you think about a “driver’s license”. This is the most common type. 

You use to drive a sedan, an SUV, a pickup, or any motor vehicle that weighs less than 26,000 pounds.

Class E

Just because your motor vehicle weighs more than 26,000 pounds doesn’t mean you need a commercial license. 

However, you can’t use your Class D credential either.

That’s where a Class E driver’s license comes in — you use it for single vehicles with a weight rating exceeding 26,000 pounds, such as trucks and RVs. But remember, it should be used for personal purposes. 

Class F

A Class F driver’s license is also for motor vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds that you use for personal purposes. 

Vehicles needing this license class are the same as those requiring a Class E. 

So, how do you know which one to get? 

It’s easy — if you use your vehicle to tow a trailer or another vehicle, you need a Class F. 

Commercial Driver’s Licenses

As the name implies, these license types are for commercial vehicles. 

This class is easy to spot as there will be a ‘CDL’ after it — meaning commercial driver’s license. 

Class A CDL

You need a Class A CDL to operate a combination commercial vehicle (CMV) with a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of more than 26,000 pounds. The weight of the unit it tows must be beyond 10,000 pounds.

You can use this CDL class to drive other CMVs, even those under Class B CDL and Class C CDL categories.

Class B CDL

Not all CMVs are combination vehicles. Heavy straight vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds require a Class B CDL.

You can use Class B vehicles to tow a unit, but it must weigh less than 10,000 pounds.

Class C CDL

A Class C CDL is for smaller CMVs — those with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less and tow units of fewer than 10,000 pounds. 

More importantly, Class C CDLs operate CMVs that transport hazardous materials in large quantities OR carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver). 

Motorcycle and Moped Driver’s Licenses

Finally, there are the licenses that are dedicated to 2-wheeled vehicles. 

Class G

A Class G license allows you to operate mopeds. These are bicycles with a motor of 50 ccs or less. 

Class M

You need a Class M license to drive a motorcycle in South Carolina. These may have varying engine displacements, ranging from 250 to 750 ccs.

Although it applies to all types of motorcycles, South Carolina does not require you to have a Class M license specifically to operate one with three wheels (or an automotive 3-wheel vehicle). Instead, you can use any driver’s license class except for Class G.

How to Get a Class D License in South Carolina

As this is the most common license type — let’s go over how to obtain it first. 

Teens in South Carolina must undergo the GDL process if they want their driver’s licenses before turning 18. It involves the following phases:

• Getting a beginner’s permit
• Earning a conditional driver’s license (if you’re 15½ ) OR a special restricted license (if you’re 16)
• Securing a Class D license

Let’s break these down into steps.

How to Get a Beginner’s Permit (required for anyone 15 and above). 

1. Gather the following documents:
   1. A completed Application for Beginner’s Permit, Driver’s License, or Identification Card (SCDMV Form 447-NC)
   2. A signed Consent for Minor (SCDMV Form 447-CM). This is only required if you’re below 18 years old. PLUS, your parent or legal guardian must sign it in front of a DMV representative. 
   3. Proof of identity, birth date, legal presence, SSN, and South Carolina residence

NOTE: Click here for document requirements for U.S. citizens. And click here for documents for international customers.

2. Bring these to a local DMV office before 4:00 pm and do the following:
   1. Submit the documents you prepared
   2. Pass the vision test
   3. Pass the knowledge test
   4. Pay the following fees — permit fee of $2.50 AND testing fee of $2. 

3. Receive your beginner’s permit. 

How to Get a Conditional Driver’s License (required for 15½ to 16 years old) OR Special Restricted License (required for 16 years old).

1. Fulfill the following requirements:
   1. Enroll in a South Carolina driving school and complete a Driver’s Education program
   2. Secure a Certification of School Attendance. You must have satisfactory attendance.
   3. Complete the required Driving Practice. This equates to 40 hours of supervised driving, with 10 hours done at night. 
   4. Carry your beginner’s permit for at least 180 days. 

2. Go to a local SC DMV branch for your road test. Make an appointment if you plan to take the test anywhere between 2 pm to 4 pm. 

3. Bring the following on your visit:
   1. Your valid beginner’s permit
   2. A completed SCDMV Form 447-NC
   3. Your authorized Driver’s Education, Certification of School Attendance, and Driving Practice. 
   4. Proof of identity, birth date, legal presence, SSN, and South Carolina residence
   5. A car for your driving test

4. If you’re applying for a special restricted driver’s license with a waiver, you must also submit an authorized explanation of why you need to drive alone until midnight. Plus, your parent or legal guardian must sign the waiver. 

5. Pass the vision test. 

6. Pass your road test.

7. Pay the $25 licensing fee.

8. Receive your Conditional License (if you’re 15½  but under 16) or your Special Restricted License with Waiver (if you’re 16 but under 17).

How to Get a Class D License (required for 17 years old and above). 

Whether you have a conditional or special restricted license, the DMV sends your Class D license through the mail when you turn 17 years old. 

Of course, for this to happen, you must have no traffic violations or at-fault collisions. 

If so, you won’t have to visit any DMV office or pay a fee.

Once you have your regular driver’s license, you’ll have full driving privileges in South Carolina.

If you need more information, such as restrictions or how to get a license when you’re already 18+ years old, check out our full article on ‘South Carolina Driver’s License Requirements” here. 

How to Get a Class E and F License in South Carolina

Getting a Class E and F license is similar to obtaining a Class D license. That means you must get a permit and hold it for a specified period before applying for your credential.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Be at least 18 years old.

2. Visit a local DMV office with the following documents:
   1. Application for Beginner’s Permit, Driver’s License, or Identification Card (SCDMV Form 447-NC)
   2. Proof of identity, birth date, legal presence, SSN, and South Carolina residence. Here are the documents for US citizens and here are the documents for international customers. 

3. Pass the vision and knowledge tests.

4. Pay the testing ($2.00) and permit ($2.50) fees.

5. Receive your beginner’s permit and carry it for at least 180 days.

6. Schedule your road test with the DMV.

7. Arrive at your appointment with the following:
   1. Your valid beginner’s permit
   2. Application for Beginner’s Permit, Driver’s License, or Identification Card (SCDMV Form 447-NC)
   3. Proof of identity, birth date, legal presence, SSN, and South Carolina residence
   4. An inspected, registered, and insured vehicle in the same category as the non-commercial license class on your application

8. Pass the following tests:
   1. Off-road maneuvers test (basic skills)
   2. Road test

9. Pay the $25 licensing fee.

10. Receive your Class E or F driver’s license.

How to Get a Class A, B, and C CDL in South Carolina

Don’t worry – whether you want a Class A, B, or C CDL, the process is the same.

It involves two parts:

• Getting a CDL permit 
• Earning a CDL.

How to Get a CDL Permit in South Carolina. 

1. Ensure your eligibility for a commercial license:
   1. You must meet the minimum age requirement — 18 to drive within South Carolina AND 21 for interstate trips or to carry hazardous materials
   2. You must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident
   3. You must be a resident of South Carolina
   4. You must meet the FMCSA’s health requirements
   5. You must have an active South Carolina-issued driver’s license with complete driving privileges

2. Determine your CDL class and endorsements.

3. Prepare the following documents:
   1. Application for a Commercial Learner’s Permit and Commercial Driver’s License (SCDMV Form 447-CDL)
   2. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Holders Medical Certification Requirements (SCDMV Form DL-405A) 
   3. Affidavit of Previous Driver’s License (SCDMV Form DL-402)
   4. Your valid DOT Medical Certificate (if applicable)
   5. Proof of identity, date of birth, and South Carolina residence. Ensure you have the correct documents by checking this list.

4. Visit a local DMV branch and do the following:
   1. Submit all the necessary documents
   2. Pass the vision test 
   3. Pass all CDL knowledge tests
   4. Pay the appropriate fees — application fee: $15, knowledge test fee: $2 each, and CDL permit fee: $2.50

5. Get your CDL permit. 

How to Get a CDL in South Carolina. 

1. Meet the following requirements:
   1. Have your CDL permit for 14 days or more
   2. Complete the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-accredited provider

2. Go to the SCDMV’s website and make an appointment to take your CDL skills test.

3. Arrive at your appointment with the following:
   1. Your current driver’s license 
   2. Your valid CDL permit
   3. A CMV to use for the skills test. The vehicle must be under your class category and have supporting documents for registration, inspection, and insurance.
   4. Proof of identity, date of birth, and South Carolina residence.

4. Pass all three parts of the CDL skills test — pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.

5. Pay the required licensing fee:
   1. Application fee – $15
   2. 8-year CDL fee – $25

6. Get your South Carolina CDL.

For more details, check out our complete guide on “South Carolina CDL Requirements”. 

How to Get a Class G and M License in South Carolina

Lastly, let’s see how you can get a Class G or M license in South Carolina. 

How to Get a Class G License.

1. Be at least 15 years old.

2. Visit a local DMV office with the following documents:
   1. A filled-out Application for a Commercial Learner’s Permit and Commercial Driver’s License (SCDMV Form 447-CDL)
   2. Consent for Minor (SCDMV Form 447-CM) – if under 18 years old. 
   3. Proof of identity, birth date, and South Carolina residence

NOTE: If under 18 years old, a parent or a guardian must accompany you so they can sign the form before a DMV representative.

NOTE II: Remember that there are differences in acceptable documents between citizens and non-citizens.

3. Pass the vision and knowledge tests.

4. Pay the $25 licensing fee.

5. Receive your Class G license.

How to Get a Class M License. 

1. Be 15 or older.

2. Visit a DMV office with the following:
   1. A parent or legal guardian (if you’re under 18)
   2. A completed Application for a Commercial Learner’s Permit and Commercial Driver’s License (SCDMV Form 447-CDL)
   3. Consent for Minor (SCDMV Form 447-CM) (for those under 18)
   4. Proof of identity, birth date, and South Carolina residence

3. Pass the following tests:
   1. Vision screening
   2. Motorcycle knowledge exam

4. Pay the required fees:
   1. $2.00 testing fee
   2. $2.50 motorcycle permit fee

5. Get your motorcycle permit and hold it for at least 180 days.

6. Complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course.

7. Schedule your motorcycle road test through the DMV’s website.

8. On your visit, bring these documents:
   1. Motorcycle safety course completion certificate 
   2. Your valid motorcycle permit
   3. Proof of identity, birth date, and South Carolina residence
   4. A motorcycle that is registered and insured. 

9. Take and pass the motorcycle road test. 

10. Pay the $25 licensing fee.

11. Get your Class M license.

The Wrap Up

Whew! 

That was a lot!

However, now you know all about the different South Carolina driver’s license types. 

So whether you plan to drive a normal vehicle, an RV, a commercial vehicle, or a motorcycle, you know which credential you need. 

Not only that, you know the steps to getting it!

If you need more details about the Class D license or CDL license process, don’t hesitate to check our in-depth guides. 

We’re sure you’ll find the information you need there.