What South Carolina's Concealed Carry Law Actually Requires
South Carolina no longer requires a permit to carry a concealed handgun
As of August 16, 2024, South Carolina became a constitutional carry state. This means you can carry a concealed handgun in public without first obtaining a permit from your county sheriff. You do not need permission, a background check, or a waiting period before you carry. The law applies to any person legally allowed to own a firearm under federal and state law.
This change eliminated the Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP) that South Carolina had required since 1995. If you already have a CWP, it remains valid and can still be useful—particularly if you travel to other states that recognize South Carolina permits. But you no longer need one to carry concealed in South Carolina itself.
The change does not mean you can carry a gun anywhere. Restrictions still exist on where firearms are prohibited, and those rules have not changed. Understanding what you can and cannot do is essential to staying within the law.
Key Takeaways
- You can now carry a concealed handgun in South Carolina without a permit, as long as you are legally allowed to own a firearm under federal and state law.
- Certain places remain off-limits for firearms, including courthouses, mental health facilities, detention centers, and private property where the owner has posted a prohibition.
- Federal law still bars certain people from possessing firearms, including convicted felons, people subject to domestic violence restraining orders, and those adjudicated mentally ill.
- If you travel out of state, your old CWP may be recognized by other states, but you should verify reciprocity before you go.
- Open carry of handguns was already legal in South Carolina; the 2024 change made concealed carry legal without a permit.
Who cannot carry a concealed handgun in South Carolina
Federal law prohibits certain categories of people from possessing any firearm, including a concealed handgun. These restrictions apply regardless of South Carolina's permit law. You cannot carry if you have been convicted of a felony, are subject to a domestic violence protective order, have been adjudicated mentally ill or incompetent, or are an unlawful user of a controlled substance.
South Carolina state law adds its own restrictions. You cannot carry if you have been convicted of a crime of violence, certain drug offenses, or if you are subject to a restraining order issued by a court. If you are unsure whether a past conviction or court order affects your right to carry, contact a criminal defense attorney or your county sheriff's office before attempting to carry a concealed handgun.
Places where you still cannot carry a concealed handgun
Even though you no longer need a permit, the law prohibits carrying a concealed handgun in specific locations. Federal buildings, courthouses, and detention facilities are off-limits. Mental health facilities, substance abuse treatment centers, and certain medical facilities also prohibit firearms. Schools and school property—including parking lots during school hours—are prohibited under both state and federal law.
Private property owners have the right to prohibit firearms on their land. If a business, church, or other private property owner posts a sign stating that firearms are not allowed, you cannot carry there. Violating a posted prohibition can result in trespassing charges. Some employers also prohibit firearms in their workplaces; check your employee handbook or ask your HR department.
Airports allow firearms in checked baggage only, and only if they are unloaded and declared to the airline. Carrying a loaded firearm through an airport terminal is a federal crime. If you plan to travel with a firearm, contact your airline in advance to learn their specific rules.
How the permit change affects you if you already have a CWP
Your existing Concealed Weapon Permit remains valid and does not expire simply because the law changed. You do not need to renew it or turn it in. Many people keep their permits because other states recognize South Carolina CWPs for reciprocal carry rights. If you travel frequently to other states, your permit may still be valuable.
However, you are not required to maintain your permit. If you do not travel out of state or no longer need reciprocal recognition, you can simply let it expire without renewing. There is no penalty for choosing not to renew.
If you want to verify the status of your current permit or have questions about reciprocity with other states, contact your county sheriff's office. They maintain the CWP records and can tell you whether your permit is still active and which states recognize it.
Reciprocity with other states
South Carolina's constitutional carry law means you can carry concealed without a permit within South Carolina, but other states have their own laws. Some states recognize South Carolina residents' right to carry based on reciprocity agreements; others do not. A few states recognize only the old CWP and not constitutional carry.
Before traveling to another state with a firearm, research that state's carry laws. Some states allow constitutional carry; others require a permit even for residents. A few states do not recognize South Carolina permits at all. The reciprocity landscape changes, so verify current rules before you travel. Organizations like the National Rifle Association publish reciprocity guides, and your county sheriff can also provide information.
If you plan to carry in multiple states regularly, keeping your CWP active may still make sense. Some states recognize the CWP even if they do not recognize constitutional carry, giving you broader legal protection when you travel.
What happens if you carry illegally
Carrying a concealed handgun while prohibited by law—either because you are in a restricted location or because you are legally barred from possessing a firearm—is a crime in South Carolina. The penalties depend on the specific violation. Carrying in a courthouse or federal building carries federal penalties. Carrying while you are a prohibited person under state or federal law can result in felony charges.
If you are arrested for illegal carry, you will face criminal charges. A conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are unsure whether you are legally allowed to carry or whether a location prohibits firearms, err on the side of caution and do not carry there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to tell a police officer I am carrying a concealed handgun if I am stopped?
South Carolina law does not require you to volunteer that information, but if an officer asks directly, you must answer truthfully. If you are carrying and the officer asks for your driver's license, it is often safer to inform them at that moment rather than have them discover the firearm during a pat-down or vehicle search. Many officers appreciate the advance notice.
Can I carry a concealed handgun in my car without a permit?
Yes. You can carry a concealed handgun in your vehicle without a permit under the new law, as long as you are not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm. The same restrictions on locations still apply—you cannot carry in a courthouse parking lot or on school property, for example.
What if I have a felony conviction from another state—can I carry in South Carolina?
Federal law prohibits anyone convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm, regardless of where the conviction occurred. A felony conviction from another state counts. You cannot legally carry in South Carolina or any other state. If you believe your conviction should not count as a felony for this purpose, consult a criminal defense attorney about your options.
Does constitutional carry mean I can carry a gun anywhere I want?
No. Constitutional carry means you do not need a permit, but it does not override restrictions on specific locations. Courthouses, federal buildings, schools, and private property where firearms are prohibited remain off-limits. The law also does not protect you if you are a prohibited person under federal or state law.
If I move to South Carolina from another state, can I carry concealed right away?
Yes, as long as you are legally allowed to own a firearm under federal and state law. You do not need to establish residency, get a South Carolina driver's license, or obtain any permit. The constitutional carry law applies to anyone carrying in South Carolina, regardless of where they live.