Concealed Carry in South Carolina

Yes. Since March 7, 2024, people who are not otherwise barred from having a firearm may carry a firearm openly or concealed without training and without a concealed weapons permit. SLED states that the law 'allows individuals 18 years old and older to carry firearms openly or concealed without a permit'. Carry is still banned in the places listed in § 16-23-20(A).

South Carolina still issues an optional 'concealed weapon permit' (CWP) through the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED). SLED 'must issue' a permit (shall-issue) to a resident or qualified nonresident who is at least eighteen years old and provides proof of training. The training must include firing at least 25 rounds; certain military and law enforcement applicants are exempt. SLED must offer a free statewide training course in every county at least twice a month. The statute says SLED may not charge a fee for a permit. Renewal costs $50, and fingerprinting may cost up to $5. A renewed permit is valid for five years. SLED says the CWP still gives reciprocity in other states and makes buying from dealers easier.

South Carolina honors concealed carry permits held by residents of states that require applicants to pass a criminal background check and complete firearm training, as listed and published by SLED. It automatically recognizes permits issued by Georgia and North Carolina. Visitors must follow South Carolina's carry laws.

Even with a permit, no one may carry a handgun into: law enforcement, correctional or detention facilities; courthouses or other public buildings where court is in session, while it is in session; polling places on election days; offices or business meetings of county, school district, municipal or special district governing bodies; school or college athletic events not related to firearms; daycare or preschool facilities; places where federal law bans firearms; churches without permission of the church official or governing body; hospitals, clinics, doctor's offices or other medical facilities unless authorized; another person's home without permission; and places clearly posted with a sign banning concealable weapons. Possessing a firearm on school property is separately banned, except that a firearm may stay in an attended or locked vehicle, secured in a closed glove box, console or trunk. Knowingly carrying a firearm into a business that sells alcohol for on-premises drinking is also banned, with some exceptions.

Anyone not otherwise barred by law from carrying a firearm may lawfully store a firearm anywhere in a vehicle, whether occupied or unoccupied, openly or concealed. There is no duty to tell an officer you are carrying a firearm.