Airports
Incorrect carrying procedures at an airport could be a federal crime. Learn to properly carry when picking up passengers, safely secure guns in a car while traveling and legally checking a gun in your baggage.
Travelers can check a firearm in their luggage as long as these rules are followed:
Firearm must be unloaded.
Firearm must be secured and locked in a hard-sided case.
Ammunition may be stored in the same hard-sided case as the firearm.
Firearm must be declared at the check-in counter.
Firearm can only be transported as checked baggage.
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Before getting to the airport, your firearm must be unloaded and secured in a hard-sided case. Magazines, whether loaded or unloaded, may be stored in the same hard-sided case, and the case must be locked with a combination or key-style lock. Once at the airport, approach your airline's counter and declare your firearm. The employee will check to ensure that everything complies with TSA regulations. Firearms and Ammunition can only be transported as checked baggage.
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No, firearms are not allowed to be transported in carry-on baggage. Firearms must be declared at the airport and must be transported in checked baggage only.
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Yes, you may store your gun in your vehicle while traveling. However, understand that airport parking lots are not secure. It is your responsibility to properly secure your firearm in a LOCKED compartment, glove box, or a designated safe which is secured to a part of the vehicle to prevent theft.
If using a dedicated safe, ensure that it is stored out of view from the public, the keys or combination is not accessible, and your vehicle is LOCKED. Under South Carolina’s Constitutional Carry Bill, H. 3594, if your firearm is lost or stolen, it is your responsibility to report the loss or theft within ten (10) days of discovery to the appropriate local law enforcement.
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No, you MAY NOT carry your firearm into the airport. If you plan to enter airport facilities, you MUST secure your firearm in your vehicle prior to entering.
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No, you generally cannot buy a firearm in a different state and bring it home. Under 18 U.S.C. 922, no licensed dealer may sell a handgun to someone who is not a resident of that state. Shotguns and Rifles may be purchased out of state, but they must be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in your state, where you will complete all necessary paperwork to complete the transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ready to Learn More?
SCSafeCarry.com is a great place to learn about the basics of gun safety.
Taking the entire online course will teach you about firearm best practices, laws around gun ownership and more.
The in-person Safe Carry course will allow you to ask questions to a certified instructor and get your hands on sample safes.
For in-person training that includes time on a range with a certified instructor, you can sign up for a full Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) course.
All of these options are provided for free by the State of South Carolina.