CDL Steps

Get Started in the Commercial Truck Driving (CDL) Program

Thank you for your interest in Trident Tech’s Commercial Truck Driving certificate program. Please follow the steps below to be ready to start your program.

Register Here to attend a CDL Workshop

Step 1: Apply to Trident Technical College (No Application Fee).

• Apply online.
• Select Commercial Truck Driving Certificate as your academic program.
• Emial a photo/file of your valid South Carolina driver's license and high school diploma or GED Transcript to admissionsdocs@tirdenttech.edu.

If you do not have a high school diploma or GED, there are alternative options available to you that will be discussed at the CDL workshop.

Step 2: Visit Trident Tech's student portal at my.tridenttech.edu.

• Username: Your username is usually your first and last name, all one word, all lowercase at my.tridenttech.edu (ex: firstandlastname@my.tridenttech.edu).
• Password: Your password is orginally set to "Aa" plus the last six numbers of your Social Security number plus "$" (ex: Aa######$).

There are exceptions. If your name is a common name, your username may be an exception which means it has up to a five-digit number after your name (ex: susanbrown4572). This number was included in the letter of acknowledgement you received from the Admissions Office after you applied to Trident Technical College.

Step 3: Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

• Using this link (FAFSA® Application | Federal Student Aid), please complete the FAFSA for the current academic year.
  • For example, starting in Spring 2026 or Summer 2026, submit the 2025-26 FAFSA. To start in Fall 2026, Spring 2027 or Summer 2027, submit the 2026-27 FAFSA).
• Please contact the Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) if you need help with the FAFSA by calling 843-574-6430 or emialing eoc@tridenttech.edu.

Step 4: Attend a CDL Workshop.

CDL Workshops are held every second Wednesday at Trident Tech's Thornley Campus Student Success Center (Bldg. 500/Rm. 134) at 2:30 p.m. (in person) and at 6 p.m. (virtually).

• Register here for a CDL Workshop.

Step 5: Complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) Physical.

You will not be able to register for classes without it. You are responsible for the cost of this physical. Costs vary significantly, typically between $70-$150. We Recommend that you call in advance for pricing. You can search from a list of registered providers in your area.

Step 6: Get your Class-A Learner's Permit (CLP) and 10-year driving record.

You will need to take your driver's licese and DOT medical card to a SCDMV field office to apply for a CLP and also obtain your 10-year Certified Driving Record. You will be responsible for all SCDMV fees.

• You will need to pass three knowledge tests: General Knowledge, Combinations and Air Brakes.
  • To prepare, you should study sections 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 of the S.C. CDL Manual for the tests. the Manual is available online (search for CDL Manual) or may be purchased at any SCDMV feild office. We also recommend you take the knowledge tests for Tanker Vehicle Endorsements.

Step 7: Bring a copy of your documents to Thornley Campus.

To place your name on the list of interested students, we need a copy of the following:

• Your Class A permit
• Your driver's license
• Your 10-year driving history
• Your full DOT physical

All documents listed above must be submitted together and taken to Thornley Campus, Bldg. 800/Rm. 801-F, on Mondays or Thurdsays from 1-4 p.m. We don not accept emailed documents.

If you have questions, contact Alaina Saxon at 843-574-6173 or email TTCCDL@tridenttech.edu.

Interest in this program is high, and we are working hard to meet everyone's needs. Your patience is appreciated.