Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in South Carolina? (2026)
Yes — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal in South Carolina as of 2026.
Law changed in 2024: The 'Constitutional Carry/Second Amendment Preservation Act' was signed into law on March 7, 2024. This is a major change from the previous permit-based system. The law also includes a provision for the dismissal of certain prior gun possession charg...
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Quick Answer
South Carolina allows permitless concealed carry for residents 21 and older under Act 244 of 2021, effective August 17, 2021. Non-residents still require a permit. Certain locations remain restricted.
- Age restriction: 21 years old
What the Law Says
South Carolina's constitutional carry law allows permitless concealed carry for residents 18 and older, but still prohibits firearms in certain locations and for certain individuals, with violations leading to criminal penalties.
— South Carolina Act 244 of 2021
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Residents 21+ may carry concealed without a permit; non-residents must have a valid permit. |
| Permit Availability | Sales regulated under federal and state law; no special restrictions related to constitutional carry. |
| Penalties | Violations of restricted areas or carrying by prohibited persons can lead to criminal penalties. |
| Minimum Age | 21 years old |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The 'Constitutional Carry/Second Amendment Preservation Act' was signed into law on March 7, 2024. This is a major change from the previous permit-based system. The law also includes a provision for the dismissal of certain prior gun possession charges.
Enforcement Reality
South Carolina's constitutional carry law is very new, having taken effect on March 7, 2024. Law enforcement is still adapting to the new law, but a key point is that they can no longer stop someone solely because a firearm is visible.
A common mistake is not understanding that there are still places where firearms are prohibited, such as the State House grounds. Another is for individuals under 18 to believe they can carry, as the law only applies to those 18 and older.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across South Carolina. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal in South Carolina. You can carrying a concealed weapon without a permit without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
South Carolina vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is fully legal in 23 states, restricted in 14, and illegal in 13. South Carolina falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry):
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is carrying a concealed weapon without a permit legal in South Carolina?
Does South Carolina allow constitutional carry (permitless carry)?
What is the minimum age for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in South Carolina?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive South Carolina Legal Guides
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