Does South Carolina Honor New Hampshire CCW Permits?

No. South Carolina does not honor New Hampshire concealed carry permits.

Last reviewed: 2026-03-14

What This Means for You

A New Hampshire concealed carry permit is not recognized in South Carolina. Carrying a concealed firearm in South Carolina on a New Hampshire permit alone could expose you to serious criminal charges. Your options include: (a) applying for a South Carolina non-resident permit if available, (b) carrying only in your vehicle if South Carolina permits it, or (c) leaving your firearm at home. Always verify current rules with the South Carolina Attorney General before traveling.

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.

Reverse Direction

The reverse question — "Does New Hampshire honor South Carolina CCW permits?" — has its own answer: No. See the New Hampshire ← 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.