07/06/2026
We wanted to share a bit of knowledge we recently received from SC's Law Enforcement Division, pertaining to new and existing firearm purchasers.
Below, SLED has sent this document to every FFL in order to educate the public. Whether you are a new or existing gun owner, with every purchase, you will receive this documentation. Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. 16-2-495(D), if you commit a crime involving a concealable weapon, and you do not have a state approved conceal permit (CWP), additional criminal penalties will be added to the underlying offense. As early as 2024, SC passed Constitutional carry and made it lawful both to open carry and to conceal a firearm on your person. However, with the introduction of this new SC Code, it is crucial that every individual understands the Rights and Wrongs pertaining to the responsible carrying of a firearm on their person.
With this being said, if an individual is interested in obtaining an SC CWP, here's more information about it.
* Minimum twice a month, SLED approved instructors provide this training free of charge. To check the schedule, please visit https://sled.arlo.co/w/schedule/page-5/ . If an instructor insists you must pay for it, then they have not been improved by SLED.
* You do not need prior experience to attend this class, although it is recommended. If a retail shop or private instructor is saying you do, then they are not associated with the SLED approved courses.
* You must have a South Carolina Driver’s License/ID or own real property in South Carolina to attend this course.
* There IS a required shooting portion of the CWP course, and you will need to bring a handgun, 25 rounds of ammunition for that handgun, ear protection, and eye protection (sunglasses and glasses are fine).
* If you do not own a personal firearm, then usually the instructor has some extra ones available. Please arrange that with them. A small fee might apply.
* Most importantly, if your CWP is expired, you DO NOT have to retake the class. You can renew your CWP online at the following link SLED CWP Renewal for up to 18 months past the expiration date, and by mailing paper application if it is over 18 months expired.
* As early as 2024, SLED has waived the fee to apply for a CWP, provided you have passed an approved course and submitted the required documents. If anyone is offering or attempting to charge a fee for this procedure, then they are independent of and not associated with the SLED/CWP process.
For more information, please visit: https://www.sled.sc.gov/concealed-weapons-permit/sled-sponsored-cwp-courses
What this ultimately comes down to is that there are some out there who wish to profit from this procedure. Understanding what the law says, and the procedure to obtain a CWP is will allow everyone to understand what the associated costs are not necessary or required.
For more information about the South Carolina Concealed Permit, please visit: https://www.sled.sc.gov/concealed-weapons-permit