Step 1 — Hold SC unarmed registration first
You must hold or be in the process of obtaining a valid SC Security Officer Registration Certificate before applying for a weapons permit.​

Step 2 — Meet armed-specific requirements

  • Be at least 21 years old​

  • Be legally eligible to possess firearms under state and federal law

Step 3 — Complete SLED armed training and demonstrate firearm proficiency
SLED requires proof of proficiency with the specific type of firearm authorized by your employer before any weapons permit is issued.​

PPS SLED Armed Training — $225.00 | 4 hours + range fees | ppsprotects.com/security-training-at-piedmont

SC SLED armed training covers:

  • Legal authority for armed security in South Carolina

  • Firearm safety and handling

  • Firearm proficiency demonstration (SLED-required)

  • Use-of-force policy under SC law

  • Open carry rules and concealed weapons permit eligibility for credentialed SC security officers

Step 4 — Employer submits application to SLED
Includes: completed SLED Security Weapons Permit application, one full fingerprint set, and proof of firearm proficiency.​

Step 5 — Annual permit renewal
The Security Weapons Permit is valid for one year and requires annual re-demonstration of firearm proficiency.​

Step 6 — Understand carry rules
A permitted SC armed security officer may carry only in an open and fully-exposed manner while in uniform and on duty, or traveling directly to or from a security post. SLED may issue a concealed weapons permit where assignment duties specifically require it.​