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 71 verified training programs serving the Lamar, South Carolina area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Lamar, SC

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Lamar?We have identified 71 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Lamar area (Pop: 15,000).

Quick Stats

71 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 15,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Lamar, 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
71

71 CDL Schools Near Lamar

CDL Training Market in Lamar, SC (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

  • Active Schools2
  • ELDT Verified2
  • Average Tuition$3,500
  • Starting From$3,500
  • Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Lamar have access to 2 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 Lamar 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.

Top Picks in Lamar

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

PRO DRIVING ACADEMY

Columbia, SC

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

TRANSTECH INC Columbia

Columbia, SC

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Roadmaster Drivers School (CSC)

Columbia, SC

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PRO DRIVING ACADEMY

Columbia, SC
9.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Columbia Yard

Columbia, SC
9.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

TRANSTECH INC Columbia

Columbia, SC
11.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Roadmaster Drivers School (CSC)

Columbia, SC
11.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Columbia Classroom

Columbia, SC
12.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Richland One School District

Columbia, SC
12.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Knight's Drivers Academy

Columbia, SC
12.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

SCP Columbia

Columbia, SC
13 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Dominion Energy South Carolina

West Columbia, SC
14 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

South Carolina Department of Transportation

Columbia, SC
14.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Ancora for Midlands Technical College

Columbia, SC
14.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Richland County Government

Columbia, SC
15.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Richland One Student Transportation

Columbia, SC
15.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Richland School District Two

Columbia, SC
15.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Southern Valet & Transportation

West Columbia, SC
15.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

OCO - The COMET

Columbia, SC
16.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

RATP Dev USA

Columbia, SC
16.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Central Transport - 292

Columbia, SC
16.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

TEAMSTERS LOCAL UNION 509

West Columbia, SC
16.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

TRUSTED KING TRANSPORT LLC

West Columbia, SC
17.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 61 schools

CDL Training in Lamar, South Carolina

<div class="space-y-4"> <p><strong>Lamar, SC</strong> offers <strong>71 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs</strong> for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you're seeking a Class A CDL for tractor-trailer operation or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, the programs below are all registered in the federal Training Provider Registry (TPR)—the only database that counts for ELDT certification.</p> <p>CDL drivers in SC earn competitive salaries with strong job security. The national driver shortage continues to push starting pay higher, with many carriers offering signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for new CDL holders. Training typically takes 4-8 weeks for full-time students, with weekend and evening options available at select Lamar schools.</p> <p>Compare tuition costs, program length, and specializations below. Look for schools that offer hazmat endorsement training, tanker certification, and job placement assistance—these add immediate earning potential to your CDL. Read our guide on <a href="/blog/is-cdl-school-worth-it-2026" class="text-blue-600 hover:underline">whether CDL school is worth it in 2026</a> for a detailed cost-benefit analysis.</p> </div>

Why Get CDL Training Near Lamar?

  • 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.

Trucking Jobs Near Lamar

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 Lamar: 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.

Compare CDL Schools in Lamar

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 15 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class ATanker
Weekend Classes
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Class A
Manual Trans.
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Alpha Tree Service
FMCSA Verified
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Class AHazmatTanker
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BTanker
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class ATanker
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Beverage South
FMCSA Verified
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved

Tuition Costs in Lamar

Avg. Private School
$5,200
Avg. Public School
$3,300
Price Range
$2,800 - $6,600

Port of Charleston drives trucking demand.

Need Help Choosing?

Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

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DOT Physicals Near Lamar

Required for your CDL medical card

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Columbia

9752 Business Park Dr, Columbia
4.5
$117-$179
Walk-ins OK

CVS MinuteClinic - Central Columbia

3302 Corporate Way, Columbia
4.3
$92-$146
Walk-ins OK

Walgreens Healthcare Clinic - Columbia

5945 Park Ave, Columbia
4.1
$75-$120
Walk-ins OK

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

CDL Testing & DMV in Lamar

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 Lamar

How long does CDL training take in Lamar?
CDL training programs in Lamar, 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 Lamar without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Lamar 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 Lamar 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 Lamar?
The CDL driver job outlook near Lamar, 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 Lamar?
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 Lamar CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

Complete CDL Training Guide for Lamar Area Residents

While CDL training options directly in Lamar are limited, there are excellent opportunities throughout South Carolina and nearby areas. Here's everything you need to know to start your trucking career.

CDL Jobs in South Carolina

Average Salary
$45,000 - $65,000
Key Industries

manufacturing, logistics, and distribution

In-Demand Specializations
  • Over-the-road (OTR)
  • Regional routes
  • Local delivery
Major Routes

Interstate highways

Top Employers

National carriers, regional trucking companies, Amazon, FedEx

Funding Options

WIOA grants through local workforce development

Nearby Cities with More Options

Consider these nearby cities with more FMCSA-verified CDL schools:

View All South Carolina Schools

South Carolina CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know

  • Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate)
  • Hold a valid driver's license
  • Pass a DOT physical examination
  • Complete ELDT from an FMCSA-registered provider
  • Pass CDL knowledge and skills tests
3-8
Weeks to complete
View Full Requirements

Can't Afford CDL School?

Many trucking companies offer FREE CDL training with employment commitment.

View Paid Training Programs