Free Concealed Weapons Permit Classes Now Available in South Carolina

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) now offers free Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) training courses twice a month in each county, per a new state mandate. Open to residents 18 and older, the program provides essential firearms training at no cost, covering safety, firearm laws, and self-defense.

COLUMBIA, SC (2-minute read) — The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has launched a new program providing free Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) training, as required by the state’s recently enacted Constitutional Carry law. The program, available to all South Carolina residents aged 18 and over, offers two monthly classes in each county, ensuring easy access to those seeking a CWP.

SLED has collaborated with certified instructors and certain law enforcement agencies to conduct the free courses. To participate, residents must have either a South Carolina driver’s license or own property in the state. While attendees are asked to bring a handgun and 25 rounds of ammunition for practical shooting exercises, instructors may also provide firearm rentals for those who need them.

Each CWP course includes at least four hours of foundational instruction on essential topics, such as firearm safety, handling fundamentals, nomenclature, self-defense laws, and state regulations for lawful carry. In addition to classroom learning, participants must complete a 50-question multiple-choice exam and a 25-round shooting qualification. A passing score of 70% is required on both evaluations to complete the course successfully.

South Carolina residents may attend any course, regardless of their home county. These free sessions mirror the existing CWP training in terms of content and requirements but come without the usual instructional fees.

Those interested in registering should visit SLED’s website, select their county of choice, and submit a class request. Registrants will receive confirmation and additional details about the class seven days before the scheduled date. For any questions, individuals can reach out to SLED’s training support at [email protected].

Safety Tip: Always store firearms securely, using gun safes or lockboxes to prevent unauthorized access, and practice regular maintenance to ensure safe operation.