The laws governing the legal use, storage and carrying of firearms are constantly changing. Below are the applicable laws in the State of South Carolina as of 11/15/2025 The below information is designed to be a guide and not the final word. If you have specific questions, please refer to the South Carolina legislation at the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

South Carolina is known for its relatively firearm-friendly laws, encouraging responsible ownership and carry. This detailed overview provides essential information for residents, visitors, and gun owners alike, with a focus on lawful carry, licensing, restrictions, recent legal changes, and safety best practices.

1. Concealed Carry Law in South Carolina

Legal Framework

• The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) issues permits for concealed carry under Title 23 of the South Carolina Code of Laws.
• South Carolina is a shall-issue state: if applicants meet statutory requirements, the license must be issued and is valid for 5 years.

Key Provisions

• A license to carry a firearm must be obtained to carry concealed in public for non-restricted areas.
• Open carry is permitted without a license in most areas, except where local restrictions apply.
• Carry in prohibited areas (e.g., federal buildings, schools) remains illegal even with a permit.

2. The Permit Application Process and Costs

Eligibility:

• Be 21 years or older.
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
• No felony convictions or certain misdemeanor domestic violence offenses.
• Pass a background check and fingerprinting.
• Complete a firearm safety awareness or training course (unless exempt conditions apply).

Application Steps:

• Submit a completed application via SLED’s online portal or in person at your sheriff’s office.
• Pay an application fee, generally around $50–$100.
• Undergo fingerprinting and a criminal background check.
• Await processing, which typically takes 30–45 days.

Renewal:

• Permits are valid for 5 years, with renewal requiring a criminal background check and current application.

3. Laws, Policies, and Restrictions

• Reciprocity: South Carolina recognizes permits from multiple states—check current reciprocity agreements on the SLED website.

• Carry restrictions:

  • Prohibited locations: federal buildings, courts, schools, polling places, certain healthcare facilities, private property with posted restrictions, and bars where alcohol is served (unless licensed).
  • Vehicle carry: Firearms must be unloaded and secured unless carried on the person or with a license.

• Private property: Property owners can post signs forbidding guns; carrying onto such property can result in trespassing charges.

4. Common Gun Law Infractions

• Carrying without a valid permit in restricted areas.
• Carrying into federal or school zones.
• Possession of firearms by prohibited persons (felons, domestic violence offenders).
• Carrying a loaded firearm without a license outside of permitted areas.
• Unsecured storage or transportation in vehicles.
• Importing or possessing illegal firearms or accessories.

Illegal carry can lead to major criminal charges, fines, and loss of permit privileges.

5. Prohibited Persons from Owning or Carrying Firearms

• Felons or individuals with prior felony convictions.
• Persons subject to restraining orders related to domestic violence.
• Those adjudicated mentally ill or involuntarily committed.
• Individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors, including domestic violence.
• People dishonorably discharged from the military.
• Non-citizens without legal immigration status.

Federal law aligns closely; prohibited persons cannot possess or carry firearms anywhere in the U.S.

6. Prohibited Places for Carrying Guns

• Federal properties: courthouses, post offices, military bases.
• Schools and school buses: although carry laws differ, currently prohibited unless specifically authorized.
• Government buildings: police stations, detention centers.
• Places explicitly posted: private property with signage banning firearms.
• Bars or establishments where alcohol is the primary business (unless permitted under a license and the carry is not prohibited).

Always observe signage and property restrictions to avoid criminal charges.

7. Open Carry Laws in South Carolina

• Legal without a permit in most areas for openly carried firearms.
• Restrictions apply in urban areas, private property, and places where signage prohibits open carry.
• Recent laws reaffirm that open carry is lawful but subject to local ordinances.
• Traveling or campus carry may have additional restrictions; always verify local rules.

8. Recent Gun Law Changes in South Carolina (Last 2 Years)

• 2021: The state reinforced background check requirements for firearm transfers, closing loopholes in private sales.
• 2022: Statutes were amended to more clearly define prohibited carry zones (such as private clubs and certain public events) and enhance signage requirements for private property restrictions.
• 2023: There was increased emphasis on offense penalties for illegal carry, including stricter fines and potential license suspension for violations.
• Private and Public Locations: New statutes clarified carry restrictions on private property and in certain establishments, requiring property owners to post lawful signage that can be enforced by law.

Always verify the most current laws periodically, as South Carolina law continues to evolve.

9. Additional Important Laws & Policy Updates

• Magazine Restrictions: Currently, South Carolina does not have comprehensive magazine capacity restrictions**;** carry of high-capacity magazines is generally legal.
• Assault Weapons: The state does not ban assault weapons but may have restrictions on certain accessories or modifications.
• Ammunition: Purchase and transfer regulations may include background checks for certain types of ammunition or accessories.
• Fines & Penalties: Violations such as illegal carry, possession of prohibited weapons, or carry in restricted zones can result in fines, license revocation, or criminal charges—ranging from misdemeanors to felonies depending on severity.

10. FAQs: South Carolina Gun Laws & Carry Regulations

Q1: Do I need a permit to carry a concealed firearm in South Carolina?
A: Yes, South Carolina requires a valid License to Carry a Handgun (LTC) to carry concealed in public, both residents and non-residents. The license is valid for five years and recognized in numerous states through reciprocity.

Q2: Can non-residents obtain a South Carolina LTC?
A: Yes. Non-residents can apply for a South Carolina LTC if they meet eligibility criteria, including background checks and training.

Q3: Is open carry legal in South Carolina?
A: Yes, open carry is generally legal without a permit, but local ordinances and private property restrictions might limit open carry in some areas.

Q4: Where am I restricted from carrying in South Carolina?
A: Federal buildings, courthouses, schools, polling places, and private properties posted with signage prohibiting guns are off-limits.

Q5: How do I apply for an LTC?
A: Submit an application to your county sheriff’s office, provide fingerprinting, pass a background check, and complete a short training course. Fees typically range from $50 to $100.

Q6: What are the penalties for illegal carry or possession?
A: Violations can lead to fines, criminal charges (misdemeanor or felony), license suspension, and potentially jail time.

11. Resources & Important Contacts

• South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) — Firearm Licensing & Reciprocity: Official site for license application, reciprocity, and updates on carry laws.

• South Carolina Code of Laws: Legal statutes related to firearm possession, carry, and restrictions.

• Local Law Enforcement: Contact your county sheriff or municipal police department for licenses, restrictions, and local ordinance enforcement.

• Federal Regulations: Guidance on interstate firearm movement, federal restrictions, and legal compliance.

Final Summary

South Carolina offers robust protections for law-abiding gun owners, including permitless carry for residents over 21, and recognized reciprocity with many states for concealed carry permits. Always carry your license and ID when traveling or carrying in public, and be aware of restrictions, private property signage, and prohibited zones.

Responsible firearm ownership involves staying up-to-date with evolving laws, respecting private property rights, and practicing safe handling at all times.

Stay informed, carry lawfully, and promote firearm safety in your community. For further questions or legal guidance, consult your local sheriff’s office or a qualified firearms attorney.