Does South Carolina Honor Arizona CCW Permits?
Yes. South Carolina honors valid Arizona concealed carry permits.
What This Means for You
If you hold a valid Arizona concealed carry permit, you may legally carry a concealed firearm in South Carolina — subject to South Carolina's laws on where carry is permitted, what locations are off-limits, and what you must do if approached by law enforcement. Your permit type and any restrictions on it (resident vs non-resident, enhanced vs standard) may further limit what's recognized.
Always Follow South Carolina's Rules
Reciprocity only addresses recognition of your permit. Once you cross the state line into South Carolina, you are bound by South Carolina's carry laws — including no-carry zones (schools, courts, government buildings, posted private property), duty-to-inform rules during law-enforcement encounters, magazine capacity limits, and any restrictions on locations like restaurants serving alcohol.
Note on open carry: Reciprocity covers concealed carry only. South Carolina may have entirely different rules for open carry; review South Carolina's open-carry guide before traveling.
Restrictions to Watch For in South Carolina
- No-carry zones: <p>In South Carolina, firearms are generally prohibited in the following locations, even for those with a concealed carry permit:</p><ul><li>Schools and school property</li><li>Courthouses and other government buildings</li><li>Polling places on election days</li><li>Bars and other establishments that primarily sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises</li><li>Churches or other religious sanctuaries, unless the church has given permission</li></ul>
- Permit-type nuances: <p>South Carolina has a shall-issue concealed carry permit system, but also allows for permitless concealed carry for most law-abiding adults. The concealed carry permit application process includes a background check, firearms safety training, and a fee. Permits are valid for 5 years and can be renewed. Non-resident permits are also available.</p><p>Even though permitless carry is legal, some individuals may still choose to obtain a concealed carry permit in order to take advantage of reciprocity agreements with other states.</p>
- Vehicle carry: <p>In South Carolina, individuals may carry a handgun in a vehicle, whether loaded or unloaded, without a permit. Long guns (rifles and shotguns) may also be transported in a vehicle, either loaded or unloaded, without a permit.</p>
Reverse Direction
The reverse question — "Does Arizona honor South Carolina CCW permits?" — has its own answer: Yes. See the Arizona ← South Carolina page for details.
Disclaimer: Reciprocity agreements change frequently and are subject to executive order, statute, or court ruling. We review every state's reciprocity list at least every six months, but you should verify with the South Carolina Attorney General before traveling. This page is informational only and does not constitute legal advice.