South Carolina Gun Laws

If you’re looking to obtain a legal firearm in South Carolina, here are some facts about South Carolina gun laws.

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South Carolina is a permitless-carry state that allows anyone 18 years old and above that can legally own a firearm to conceal or open carry a firearm.

 Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in South Carolina?

No. There is no waiting period to buy a gun in South Carolina.

 Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in South Carolina?

No. A permit is not required to purchase a firearm in South Carolina.

 Do you need to register handguns in South Carolina?

No. Handguns, rifles and shotguns do not have to be registered in South Carolina.

 Who is eligible to obtain a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) in South Carolina?

Any South Carolina state resident at least 18 years of age can apply for a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP).

 Is firearms training a requirement in South Carolina for a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP)?

Yes. South Carolina requires an eight-hour state-approved firearms-training course to obtain a Concealed Weapons Permit.

 What are the requirements to obtain a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) in South Carolina?

Applicants for a South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) must:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Be a legal resident of South Carolina
  • Meet federal law requirements
  • Complete an approved firearms-training course

 What are the steps to obtain a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) in South Carolina?

  1. Complete a firearms-training course
  2. Download an application from the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division website sc.gov, or use the online IdentoGo registration system at sc.ibtfingerprint.com.
  3. When submitting your application, you will also need: A photocopy of driver’s license or state ID, documentation of firearms-training course, the application form signed by you and your firearms instructor, the SLED CWP Instructor/Student Checklist, and two complete fingerprint cards. You will sign a release authorizing disclosure to the sheriff of any records relating to your mental health, and you will be fingerprinted at the sheriff’s office. You will be notified if your application has been approved. For paper applications, mail all documents to: SC Law Enforcement Division (SLED),Attention CWP Renewal, PO Box 21398, Columbia, SC 29221

 How Much Does A South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) cost?

The fee for a South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit is $50.

 Does South Carolina recognize concealed-carry pistol permits from other states?

Yes, with caveats. South Carolina recognizes permits from states that honor South Carolina permits. However, the reciprocal state requires an applicant to successfully pass a criminal-background check and a course in firearms safety.

 Is South Carolina a Constitutional Carry state?

Yes. South Carolina is a Constitutional Carry state.

 Is South Carolina an Open Carry state?

Yes. Open carry is legal for South Carolina residents.

 Is South Carolina a Stand Your Ground state?

Yes. South Carolina is a Stand Your Ground state. There is no duty to retreat before defending yourself.

 Are AR-style and other semi-auto rifles legal in South Carolina?

Yes. Magazine-fed semi-auto rifles are legal to buy and possess in South Carolina.

 Are Standard-Capacity Magazines Allowed in South Carolina?

Yes. Higher-capacity magazines are legal in South Carolina.

 Does South Carolina have gun-storage laws?

No. South Carolina does not have a gun-storage law.

 Is South Carolina a Red Flag state?

No. South Carolina does not a red-flag law.

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Robert Sadowski
Having been trained by many top-shelf handgun, shotgun, AR carbine, and long-range shooting instructors, Robert Sadowski brings a user's perspective to Gun Tests. He has authored and edited 15 books on firearm values, firearm disassembly and assembly, and gun guides. His Book Of Glock (Skyhorse Publishing) debuted as an Amazon #1 New Release and is a must-read for the Glock enthusiast. His latest book, 9MM - Guide to America's Most Popular Caliber (Gun Digest Books), is an indispensable resource on the 9mm and understanding the cartridge's performance for concealed carry, home defense, or competition. Over the past two decades, Sadowski has written for many magazines and websites, including tacticallife.com, range365.com, shootingillustrated.com, personaldefenseworld.com and more. His print work has appeared in Combat Handguns, Ballistic, Real World Survivor, Guns Digest, Guns of the Old West, SHOT Business, and more. He is currently the Treasurer/Secretary of the Glock Collectors Association. After receiving an MA from New York University, he worked for a number of magazine publishers and advertising agencies. Sadowski is a lifelong hunter, competitive shooter, and native of Connecticut. He now lives in North Carolina to take full advantage of our 2nd Amendment privilege.

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