Ty Robinson | February 18, 2026 | Truck Accidents

Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Box Truck in Charleston, SC?

No, you typically do not need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to drive a box truck in Charleston, SC. However, if the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) exceeds 26,000 pounds, then a CDL is needed. 

Before you rent a box truck and get behind the wheel, make sure you are familiar with all the rules of operating these large vehicles. Keep reading below to learn more about South Carolina’s CDL requirements for box trucks.

What Is a Box Truck?

Box trucks are often used for moving and deliveries, and they are fairly common on Charleston’s roads. Many individuals (and some companies) rent box trucks when they need to move cargo that won’t fit in a pickup truck or other vehicle. 

Box trucks have some unique features that distinguish them from semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, such as:

  • Box trucks are a single vehicle, not a separate truck and trailer
  • The cargo box area is attached directly to the truck frame
  • The cargo box is not accessible from the cab of the truck
  • A roll-up access door on the back of the cargo box

Some box trucks can be as short as 10 to 12 feet in length; however, others are much larger than this. In fact, some box trucks can stretch up to 26 feet in length or more.

CDL Requirements for Box Trucks in South Carolina

CDL requirements for box trucks in South Carolina depend on the vehicle’s total weight, including cargo. Most box trucks do not require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate. In fact, no CDL is required for box trucks weighing 26,000 pounds or less; however, a CDL is required for box trucks weighing 26,001 pounds or more.

It is important to remember that these weights also include the weight of any cargo you are carrying, although most box trucks (including cargo) are less than 26,000 pounds. This is why no CDL is required for most box trucks in South Carolina.

Common Types of Box Trucks

There are many different types of box trucks you may encounter on the roads in Charleston, and some of the most common types of box trucks you will see are:

It is quite common to encounter box trucks that have been rented. Many box trucks that you see on the road are rentals, and most rentals fall below the weight requirements for a CDL license. However, you should always check with the rental company to be sure you won’t need a CDL to drive the truck you are renting.

Who Can Be Liable for a Box Truck Accident in Charleston?

Liability after a box truck accident in Charleston depends on who caused the crash and the surrounding circumstances. In some cases, more than one party may share responsibility for the injuries and damages.

The box truck driver may be liable if negligent behavior caused the accident. This can include speeding, distracted driving, failing to check blind spots, or violating traffic laws. Drivers are responsible for operating these larger vehicles safely and following all applicable roadway rules.

A trucking company, rental company, or employer may also be responsible in certain situations. Companies can be liable if they failed to maintain the vehicle, negligently hired or supervised a driver, or allowed someone to operate the truck without proper qualifications. Other parties, such as maintenance providers or manufacturers, could also share liability if defective parts or improper repairs contributed to the crash.

Contact the Charleston Truck Accident Lawyer at Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm for Help Today

If you were injured in a box truck accident in Charleston, you may have options for pursuing compensation from the at-fault driver, the company that owned the truck, or other responsible parties. Proving liability and documenting damages can be difficult, especially when commercial vehicles and insurance policies are involved.

Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm can review the facts of your crash, identify potential defendants, and handle the insurance process on your behalf. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how our Charleston truck accident attorney can help with your claim.

Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm
28 Broad St Suite 204-2
Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 278-2222