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South Carolina Concealed Carry Gun Permit Laws [And How to Get Your CCW License Online] |
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Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
South Carolina operates as a shall-issue, permitless carry state, where concealed weapons permits (CWPs) are issued by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
There is no requirement for a permit, background check, or firearms registration when purchasing a handgun from a private individual.
As of March 7th, 2024, open carry and concealed carry without a permit are legal for individuals aged 18 or older, provided they are not prohibited by law. A “concealable weapon” can be openly carried or concealed on one’s person, except in areas where concealed carry is prohibited, such as private properties posted with ‘No Concealable Weapons Allowed’ signs.
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CWPs are issued to residents, non-residents who own property in South Carolina, and military personnel stationed in the state. Applicants must complete an 8-hour state-approved firearms training course. The minimum age requirement for a CWP is now 18 years old.
South Carolina recognizes resident permits from states that also recognize South Carolina permits, provided the reciprocal state requires a criminal background check and firearms training course for issuance.
Certain locations are off-limits for concealed carry, including schools and courthouses.
South Carolina follows the Castle Doctrine. Individuals attacked in a place where they have a right to be do not have a duty to retreat and may stand their ground. Deadly force is justified if there is a reasonable fear of imminent death, great bodily harm, or the commission of a violent crime against themselves or others in certain situations, including unlawful and forcible entries into dwellings, residences, or occupied vehicles.
Dwelling: A building or conveyance designed for people to lodge at night.
Residence: A dwelling where a person resides temporarily or permanently, including invited guests.
Vehicle: Any conveyance, motorized or not, designed for transporting people or property.
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Constitutional Carry?
- Does South Carolina allow constitutional carry? Yes. As of March 7th, 2024.
Open Carry Permitted?
- Is open carry permitted in South Carolina? Yes, open carry is legal without a permit as of March 7th, 2024. However, there are exceptions during public events and in certain municipal buildings.
- [S.C. Code Ann. § 23–31–210(5)]
Gun Permit Licensure?
- If South Carolina requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? South Carolina is a shall-issue state.
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?
- What is the minimum age in South Carolina to get a concealed carry permit? The minimum age to carry concealed in South Carolina is 18.
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?
- Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in South Carolina with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? No. “Concealable weapon” refers specifically to firearms less than 12" in length.
- [S.C. Code Ann. § 23–31–210(5)]
Tasers or Stun Guns?
- Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in South Carolina? Yes, both stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit.
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?
- Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in South Carolina? Yes, it is lawful to possess a container not exceeding 50cc of tear gas for self-defense purposes only.
- [S.C. Code Ann. § 16–23–470]
Magazine Limits for Handguns?
- Does South Carolina have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? No, South Carolina does not regulate magazine capacity for handguns.
Ammunition Restrictions?
Does South Carolina have ammunition restrictions? Yes, the possession and sale of teflon-coated ammunition is prohibited.
[S.C. Code Ann. § 16–23–520]
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CARRY IN VEHICLE?
- Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in South Carolina? Yes, as of March 7th, 2024, permitless transport or carrying of a firearm in a vehicle on or about one’s person, whether openly or concealed, loaded or unloaded, in a manner not prohibited by law is allowed.
CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS?
- Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in South Carolina? Yes, as of March 7th, 2024, you may carry at roadside rest areas without a permit.
CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)?
- Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in South Carolina? Yes, with a South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit or a license/permit from a state that South Carolina honors.
STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT?
- Does South Carolina have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? A public or private employer may post signage prohibiting concealed and/or openly carried firearms on the premises of the business or workplace.
CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL?
- Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in South Carolina? An innkeeper may refuse or deny accommodations to a person bringing in property believed to be dangerous, including firearms or explosives.
CARRY IN BARS/RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL?
- Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in South Carolina? Yes.
Duty to Inform Officer You’re Carrying?
Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in South Carolina? No. You do not have a duty to inform a police officer as of March 7th, 2024.
DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CCW LICENSE?
Is my South Carolina driver’s license linked to my South Carolina CCW license? No.
Preemption?
Does South Carolina have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)? The state has preemption of firearms laws in South Carolina, except municipalities may regulate the careless or negligent discharge of firearms and may temporarily restrict the otherwise lawful open carry of a firearm on public property when a permit is issued for a public protest, rally, fair, parade, festival, or other organized event by posting signs prohibiting concealable weapons. A governing body putting a restriction on open carry needs to give a specific area, duration, and manner for the restriction and provide prior notice of the restriction. The restriction may also not be extended past the start and end of the event, and an event can’t be scheduled for a length of time to abuse this part of the law.
Red Flag Law?
Does South Carolina have a red flag law? No. South Carolina does not have a red flag law. Although the state has preemption, the City of Columbia passed an ERPO ordinance in September 2019.
Brandishing?
Does South Carolina state law define brandishing? No definition of brandishing was found in South Carolina law. However, it is unlawful for a person to present or point at another person a loaded or unloaded firearm. This section must not be construed to abridge the right of self-defense or to apply to theatricals or like performances.
Carry While Using Alcohol or Controlled Substances?
Does South Carolina have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances? Not while consuming or under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING?
Does South Carolina issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? Yes, to non-residents who own property in the state and military personnel stationed in South Carolina.
PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?
Does South Carolina allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? South Carolina makes the information available for law enforcement. In addition, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) must publish a report annually during the first quarter which includes detailed information regarding individuals who have had their permit revoked and the reason for the revocation.
“No Weapons Allowed” Signs Enforced?
Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in South Carolina? If yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense. Yes. All signs must be posted at each entrance into a building where a concealable weapon permit holder is prohibited from carrying a concealable weapon, whether openly or concealed and must read, ‘NO CONCEALABLE WEAPONS ALLOWED’.
SOUTH CAROLINA PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does my current South Carolina concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
- Yes.
WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in South Carolina?
- No. There is no waiting period required when buying a handgun in South Carolina.
HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in South Carolina?
- No. Handgun registration is not required in South Carolina.
MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in South Carolina?
- You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in South Carolina.
PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in South Carolina?
- No. You are not required to obtain a permit before purchasing a handgun in South Carolina.
BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private gun sales in South Carolina?
- No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun.
POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit?
- Yes.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
California (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Colorado (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Connecticut (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Delaware (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
District of Columbia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Georgia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Hawaii (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Illinois (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Maryland (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Massachusetts (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Michigan (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Minnesota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nevada (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Jersey (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Mexico (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New York (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New York City (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Oregon (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Pennsylvania (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Puerto Rico (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Rhode Island (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Virginia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Washington (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Wisconsin (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Carolina honors resident permits from some states, provided that the state requires an applicant to successfully pass a criminal background check and a course in firearm training and safety. The minimum age is 18 years old.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Louisiana
Minnesota
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nevada
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Virginia
Wisconsin
Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old,18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old,18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old
*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old
Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.
Residency Changes: Moving to South Carolina and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply?
- South Carolina issues permits to residents, non-residents who own property in the state, and military personnel posted in South Carolina only. You can apply for your permit once you can provide proof of either residency or that you own property in the state.
Moving from South Carolina and have a South Carolina resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your South Carolina permit remains valid?
- If a person with a South Carolina concealed weapons permit establishes residency in another state, you must surrender your permit to SLED.
Requirements: An applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years old;
- Have completed an approved firearms training class within three years of application or meet an exemption;
- Reside in South Carolina, or if a resident of another state, submit proof you own property in South Carolina;
- Not have been convicted of a violent felony;
- Have corrected vision of 20/40;
- Not have been adjudged unfit to carry or possess a firearm by court order in South Carolina;
- Meet federal law requirements.
Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of South Carolina.
Name/Address Changes: Any change of permanent address must be communicated in writing to SLED within 10 days of the change free of charge. SLED will then issue a new permit with the new address. Failure to notify SLED constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by a $25 fine. The original permit remains in force until receipt of the corrected permit identification card by the permit holder, at which time the original permit must be returned to SLED.
You may request a replacement CWP using the online system. Once you have accessed the SCCWP Duplicate/Renewal link provided by IdentoGo, you will have the option to update your information as intended. SLED will print your new credential and mail it to you. Once received, you must shred/destroy your old credential. If you prefer a paper Duplicate/Replacement, follow the directions stated using the CWP Replacement form.
Lost/Stolen Permits: You may request a replacement CWP using the online system. Once you have accessed the SCCWP Duplicate/Renewal link provided by IdentoGo, you will have the option to update your information, pay the $5 fee required to process the transaction, and SLED will print your new credential and mail it to you. If you prefer a paper Duplicate/Replacement, follow the directions stated using the CWP Replacement form.
Fees: Initial Permit and Renewals are free of charge.
Valid For: 5 years
Processing Time: 90 days
Application: Paper application, Guide for completing a new or renewal CWP paper application, IdentoGo online application portal.
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits: Non-residents who own property in the state and military personnel posted in South Carolina may apply for a non-resident permit. The process is the same as for residents.
Step 1: Complete a firearms training course within three years of filing the application.
Step 2: Applicants for new CWPs can choose to submit a paper application by downloading and completing an application form or by using the online IdentoGo registration system. At this time, SLED will continue to process all submitted applications received from the IdentoGo appointments made online and any applications made by mail. To use the online system, applicants begin the application online and set up an appointment at an available IdentoGo site. At the IdentoGo site you can submit your CWP application documentation and have your fingerprints taken and sent to SLED electronically.
Step 3: You will need the following documents:
- Photocopy of driver’s license or state ID card
- Resident aliens must provide a copy of their alien card from the Department of Homeland Security
- Military applicants must submit military orders or a copy of their DD214
- Retired law enforcement officers must submit proof of retirement benefits/pension documentation
- Real property tax form R168 for non-resident applicants
- Documentation of firearm training course taken within three years or of an exemption (such as military orders for active-duty military applicants and a DD214 for retired or former military applicants)
- Application form signed by you and your firearms instructor
- SLED CWP Instructor/Student Checklist
- Two complete fingerprint cards
Step 4: For paper applications, mail information to: CWP Application, SLED Data Center, P.O. Box 21398, Columbia, SC 29221–1398
Step 5: You will be notified if your application has been approved.
Firearms training is mandatory for CWP applicants to demonstrate proficiency in handgun usage and understanding of state handgun laws. Applicants seeking an initial permit after August 15, 2021, must complete an eight-hour handgun education course. This course can be provided by a state, county, or municipal law enforcement agency or a nationally recognized organization focusing on gun safety within the last three years. The course covers:
- Statutory and case law of the state concerning handguns and the use of deadly force
- Handgun use and safety protocols
- Proper storage practices for handguns, emphasizing safety measures to prevent accidental injuries, especially involving children
- Secure carrying of a firearm in a holster, including ‘cocked and locked’ methods
- Techniques to respond when someone attempts to take your firearm from your holster
- De-escalation strategies and methods
- Practical firing of the handgun under instructor supervision, with a minimum of 25 rounds fired
Active duty military personnel, reserve members, and National Guard members are exempt from all CWP training requirements under South Carolina State law. Retired or former military personnel and retired law enforcement officers only need to complete the legal aspects of CWP training from a certified South Carolina CWP instructor.
Step 1:
Renewal applications are typically mailed out 90–120 days before your
permit expires. If your permit has been expired for more than 18 months,
you must submit a paper renewal form along with a copy of your current
SCDL. Online renewal is not an option in this case.
Step 2:
Renewal applicants can choose to submit a paper application or use the
online IdentoGo registration system. SLED continues to process
applications from both online IdentoGo appointments and mailed
submissions. To download the paper application form, visit the SLED
website.
Step 3:
Complete the application with the following required documents:
- Photocopy of driver’s license or state ID card
- Real property tax form R168 for non-resident applicants
- Resident aliens must include a copy of their alien card
Step 4:
For paper renewals, mail your application to: SC Law Enforcement
Division (SLED)
Attention: CWP Renewal
PO Box 21398
Columbia, SC 29221
Step 5:
You will receive notification by mail regarding the approval status of
your application.
Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol?
Yes, unless posted and provided you do not consume any alcohol.
Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license?
Yes.
Carry in roadside rest areas?
Yes.
Carry in state/national parks, state/national forests, and WMAs?
Yes.
Carry on public transportation?
No.
Carry in the buildings and grounds of places of worship that are
leased to a church?
As of August 15, 2021, those areas are not considered a school during
the hours that the church has the use and enjoyment of the school
property. Therefore, a valid permit holder may carry concealed or openly
carry in a church during church services or official church activities
in churches located on leased premises of an elementary or secondary
school (although not during any time students are present for a
curricular or extracurricular school-sponsored activity), only upon
express permission given by the appropriate church official or governing
body. [S.C. Code Ann.16–23–232]
Places off-limits even with a permit/license:
- Any private or public school, college, university, technical college, or other post-secondary institution without the express permission of the authorities in charge (except CWP permit holders can leave their firearm properly secured in a locked motor vehicle and is secured in a closed glove compartment, closed console, closed trunk, or in a closed container secured by an integral fastener and transported in the luggage compartment of the vehicle); and
- Any publicly owned building or property without permission from persons in charge (except CWP permit holders can leave their firearm properly secured in a vehicle). [S.C. Code Ann. § 16–23–420]
- Any elementary or secondary school property (except CWP permit holders can leave their firearm properly secured in a vehicle) [S.C. Code Ann. § 16–23–430];
- School or college athletic event not related to firearms;
- Day care or preschool facility;
- Office of, or the business meeting of, the governing body of a county, public school district, municipality or special-purpose district;
- Law enforcement office or facility;
- Detention or correctional facility;
- Courthouse or courtroom;
- Polling place on election days;
- Church or other established religious sanctuary, unless express permission is given by the appropriate church official or governing body [S.C. Code Ann. § 23–31–232].
- Hospital, doctor’s office, medical clinic or any building in which medical services are performed (unless given permission by employer); and
- Private places clearly marked with a sign prohibiting the carrying of a concealable weapon on the premises. [S.C. Code Ann. § 23–31–215(M)]
- Lodging establishments that are posted [S.C. Code Ann. § 45–2–30(A)(4)];
- Residence or dwelling of another person unless given express permission by the owner or authorized person [S.C. Code Ann. § 23–31–225];
- State Capitol building or grounds. CWP permit holders can leave their firearm locked in a vehicle [S.C. Code Ann. § 10–11–320]; and
- Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation. [S.C. Code Ann. § 23–31–215(M)]
I can legally carry a concealed firearm in South Carolina, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed?
SLED issued the following statement, “There is no South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) law that prohibits a South Carolina CWP holder from wearing a mask to comply with a city or county health ordinance or to help stop the spread of COVID-19 while carrying a concealed weapon in South Carolina.”
Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in South Carolina?
Yes. [S.C. Code Ann. § 16–23–20]
Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in South Carolina?
Yes, persons who have a CWP pursuant to SC-31–205 may possess a handgun while on any WMA. During a primitive weapons season (archery or muzzleloader), a handgun may not be used to take or attempt to take game. [SC Hunting and Fishing Reg Guide]
Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in South Carolina?
Yes. It is unlawful for a person willfully to impede or obstruct another person from lawfully hunting, trapping, fishing, or harvesting marine species. [S.C. Code Ann. § 50–1–137]
It is legal to own or open carry any kind of knife in South Carolina. It is legal to conceal carry any type of knife, so long as you do not use the knife to commit or aid in the commission of a crime. Knives are not allowed on elementary or secondary school property and counties and municipalities may have blade limits.
[SC Code Ann. §§ 16–23–460 and 16–23–430]
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