Seneca DMV Branch Rolls Out Modernized Commercial Driver’s License Testing
On September 21, 2023, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) announced the introduction of a modernized version of the commercial driver’s license (CDL) road test at its Seneca branch, marking the first implementation of the updated exam in the Upstate region. Starting the week of September 25, the Seneca branch, located at 13009 South Radio Station Road, will offer the revamped CDL skills test, with plans to extend this modernized testing approach to other DMV locations across South Carolina in the coming months.
The modernized CDL test initially rolled out at the Kingstree and Conway offices in July, is set to be adopted by other testing locations statewide throughout the remainder of 2023 and into 2024. This updated version of the exam will continue to be administered on an appointment-only basis for individuals aspiring to operate large commercial vehicles.
To accommodate modernized commercial testing, the Seneca branch will cease offering examinations for class E and F driver’s licenses, typically pursued by individuals operating RVs or RVs with tow-behind trailers. However, these tests will still be available at the Greer branch office at 610 Arlington Road in the Upstate.
The transition to the modernized exam is part of a broader initiative to expand CDL testing from nine existing offices to 18 offices across the state once fully implemented. This move aims to align the testing process with the evolving technological advancements in the trucking industry.
Kevin Shwedo, Executive Director of the S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles, emphasized the significance of this transition, stating, “This transition to a new test shows how the SCDMV is working to support the transportation industry as it puts more modern commercial vehicles on the road.”
The modernized CDL test has been restructured to reflect new national standards, accentuating the modern technology integrated into the trucking sector in recent years. Despite these modifications, there have been no alterations to the knowledge tests or the prerequisites for obtaining a commercial learner’s permit.
A newly published manual to aid customers in preparing for the updated testing is now available on the agency’s website under the CDL Manual section and can also be purchased at branch offices. The cost associated with the application remains unchanged with the switch to the modernized commercial test.
For those who have already passed one or more parts of the three-part CDL exam, it's important to note that they cannot transition to a modernized test location and receive credit for sections of the traditional test they completed successfully. However, they can transfer that credit to another traditional test location.
Appointments for the modernized test can be scheduled online through the "Schedule a Road Test" feature on the SCDMV website.
This initiative underscores the SCDMV's commitment to supporting the transportation industry by aligning the licensing process with the modern-day demands and technological advancements in commercial vehicle operations.