South Carolina does not require background checks for private gun sales. Only federally licensed dealers must conduct background checks under federal law.
You can learn more in our review of South Carolina gun laws. For more on the background check itself, keep reading.
Overview of Background Checks in South Carolina
Are They Required?
Background checks are only required for people buying guns from licensed dealers in South Carolina. This is because they have to follow federal law, which mandates the checks.
There are no laws requiring them for private sellers (people who aren’t licensed dealers). This is why private parties don’t get background checks for gun sales in the state. They do still make bills of sale sometimes, though.
Eligibility
To pass a background check in South Carolina, you should meet the eligibility requirements set by both federal and state laws. You can see the list of persons who aren’t eligible to own guns on the ATF’s website.
Timeframe
The time it takes to complete a background check varies but averages out to 3 business days. If there are a lot of people in the queue ahead of you, for example, it will take longer.
Appeal Process
The FBI offers this appeal process for people who fail a background check:
- Request the reason for the denial from the FBI at www.fbi.gov/nics-appeals.
- Give the FBI this info:
- Your complete name
- Your complete mailing address
- Your NICS Transaction Number or State Transaction Number
- Wait for the Appeal Services Team to reply with the reason for your denial (often in 5 business days).
- Challenge the cause of the denial with relevant proof.