Free South Carolina CDL Permit Practice Test: General Knowledge 2025

In the United States, there are three classes of Commercial Driver Licenses (CDLs). A Class A CDL is typically for operating large combination vehicles, such as semi-trucks and tractor-trailers. A Class B CDL is typically for operating large single-unit vehicles, including large buses, box trucks, and most dump trucks. A Class C CDL is typically for operating smaller commercial vehicles that transport hazardous materials or at least 16 occupants (including the driver), such as small buses (including shuttle buses) or small trucks carrying hazardous materials.

No matter which class of CDL you plan to get, you must meet a series of requirements. Notably, you must pass an official skills test, which includes basic vehicle maneuvers, a pre-trip inspection test, and a road test. This will show that you can operate a commercial vehicle safely. To pass this test, you must practice commercial driving under supervision until you’re consistently good at it. And to practice commercial driving, you’ll need a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

To obtain a CLP, you must also meet certain requirements, including passing the official General Knowledge test on commercial driving theory. The questions on this test are based on the official South Carolina Commercial Driver’s License Manual (South Carolina CDL Handbook 2025). However, if you’ve decided that you need to do something more than just read the manual to pass the knowledge test, you’ve certainly come to the right place!

This free South Carolina CDL permit practice test is based on the official CDL manual, just like the official knowledge test. It’s up to date as of September, 2025. There are 50 multiple-choice practice questions on such topics as basic vehicle maneuvers, driving emergencies, stopping distance, and vehicle components. Each question comes with an available hint to gently guide you to the correct answer, and an explanation of the correct answer. You can also ask our automated assistant for even more help. What this test doesn’t come with is a time limit. Take your time and learn the material addressed by this practice test.

Once you obtain a CDL and the endorsements you need for the vehicles and cargoes you plan to drive, the world of commercial driving will open up for you. Much of South Carolina is served by public transit buses for both commuting and tourism. The Port of Charleston is one of the busiest container seaports on the East Coast. There are many kinds of truck operations there: dray (short distance), over-the-road (long distance), container transport, hazardous materials transport, and overdimensional (oversize) transport. Seaports, like airports, are secure areas. You’ll need to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card.