Abstract Solid-state fermentation (SSF) was carried out in this study to improve the nutritional digestibility of two types of distilled dried grain with solubles (DDGS) by inoculating probiotic combinations. The fermented DDGS (FDDGS) contained more crude protein, small peptides and total amino acids than did unfermented DDGS. The concentrations of fiber indexes significantly declined after fermentation. The amounts of probiotics, enzymes and organic acids were significantly improved after fermentation. Microscopy revealed that SSF disrupted the surface structure and increased small fragments of DDGS substrate, thereby facilitating in vitro digestibility of FDDGS. Sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and high-performance liquid chromatography indicated the breakdown of macromolecular protein and lignocellulose, which contributed to the increase of small peptides and monosaccharides. These findings suggested the great potential of SSF to promote the nutritional quality and digestibility of the two DDGS and to expand their utilization.