South Carolina CWP: New Permitless Carry Law Explained for 2026

South Carolina joined the constitutional carry movement in March 2024 when Governor Henry McMaster signed the South Carolina Constitutional Carry/Open Carry with Training Act. The law allows eligible South Carolina residents to carry a handgun — openly or concealed — without a permit.

This guide explains South Carolina's new carry law, the continuing value of the Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP), and what South Carolina carriers need to know in 2026.

South Carolina's Constitutional Carry Law

Effective March 7, 2024, South Carolina allows any person who is legally permitted to possess a firearm to carry a handgun openly or concealed without a permit. To carry without a permit under constitutional carry, you must be at least 18 years old, be legally permitted to possess a firearm under state and federal law, and not be prohibited from carrying under South Carolina law.

The law applies to both residents and non-residents who are legally permitted to possess a firearm.

The South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP)

Despite constitutional carry, South Carolina continues to issue the Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP). The permit remains valuable for several reasons:

Reciprocity: South Carolina's CWP is recognized by more than 25 states. Without a permit, you can only carry legally in South Carolina and other constitutional carry states that extend permitless carry to non-residents.

Proof of legal carry: A CWP provides documented proof of your carry status during law enforcement encounters.

Expedited firearm purchases: A valid CWP can serve as an alternative to a NICS background check when purchasing firearms from a licensed dealer in South Carolina.

South Carolina CWP Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit, applicants must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Be a South Carolina resident (or active duty military stationed in SC)
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law
• Not have been convicted of a felony
• Not have been convicted of certain misdemeanors
• Not be subject to a domestic violence protective order
• Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent
• Complete an approved firearms training course

South Carolina CWP Training Requirements

South Carolina requires completion of an approved firearms training course. The course must be at least 8 hours and must include a live-fire component. The course must be taught by a SLED-certified instructor.

How to Apply for a South Carolina CWP

Applications are processed through the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

1. Complete your approved training course
2. Complete the application online at the SLED website
3. Submit fingerprints through an approved provider
4. Pay the $50 application fee
5. Pass a background check
6. Receive your permit (typically within 90 days)

South Carolina CWP Costs

| Fee Component | Amount | |---------------|--------| | Application fee | $50 | | Fingerprinting | $17 | | Training course (estimated) | $50–$150 | | Total | $117–$217 |

South Carolina CWPs are valid for 5 years. Renewal fees are $50.

South Carolina CWP Reciprocity

South Carolina's CWP is recognized by more than 25 states. States that honor the South Carolina CWP include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Carrying in South Carolina: Key Rules

Prohibited locations: Even under constitutional carry, South Carolina prohibits carry in law enforcement facilities, detention facilities, courthouses, polling places, schools and school property, churches (unless the governing body permits carry), hospitals, and other locations specified by state and federal law.

Duty to inform: South Carolina requires carriers to disclose to a law enforcement officer that they are carrying a firearm when stopped, upon request.

Alcohol: Carrying while under the influence of alcohol is prohibited. Carry is also prohibited in establishments that serve alcohol for on-premises consumption.

Private property: Property owners can prohibit carry on their premises. Posted signs carry legal weight.

<div style="background: linear-gradient(135deg, #1a2744 0%, #2d4a8a 100%); border-radius: 12px; padding: 2rem; margin: 2rem 0; text-align: center;"> <h3 style="color: #f0c040; margin-bottom: 1rem;">Get Your South Carolina CWP</h3> <p style="color: #e2e8f0; margin-bottom: 1.5rem;">Constitutional carry covers SC — a CWP covers 25+ more states. Check your eligibility today.</p> <a href="https://go.safetyccw.com/cf/click/1" style="background: #f0c040; color: #1a2744; padding: 0.875rem 2rem; border-radius: 8px; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; display: inline-block;">Check Your Eligibility →</a> </div>

Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina Carry

Do I need a permit to carry in South Carolina?

No. South Carolina adopted constitutional carry in March 2024. Eligible residents and visitors can carry openly or concealed without a permit. However, a CWP is recommended for reciprocity when traveling.

How long does it take to get a South Carolina CWP?

SLED typically processes CWP applications within 90 days.

Does South Carolina honor out-of-state carry permits?

Yes. South Carolina recognizes carry permits from all other states.

Can non-residents carry in South Carolina without a permit?

South Carolina's constitutional carry law applies to anyone who is legally permitted to possess a firearm, including non-residents. However, non-residents should verify current law before carrying without a permit.

What training is required for a South Carolina CWP?

An 8-hour firearms training course taught by a SLED-certified instructor, including a live-fire component.