Can I Buy a Handgun at 18 in SC?
When it comes to purchasing a handgun in South Carolina, there are certain requirements that must be met. These requirements are in place to ensure public safety and comply with federal and state laws. In this article, we will explore the question of whether it is possible to buy a handgun at 18 in SC and what the legal requirements are.
Federal Law:
Before we dive into the specifics of South Carolina law, it’s important to understand the federal perspective. The minimum age requirement to purchase a handgun in the United States is 21 years old. This is specified in 18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(1), which states that:
"It shall be unlawful for any person to sell, deliver, or otherwise transfer a firearm to any individual who the transferor knows or has reasonable cause to believe is less than 18 years of age."
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Individuals who are 18 to 20 years old can purchase a handgun with the written consent of their parent or legal guardian and under the supervision of an adult.
South Carolina Law:
Now that we’ve established the federal perspective, let’s move on to South Carolina state law. The minimum age requirement to purchase a handgun in South Carolina is also 21 years old, as specified in S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-20. This law prohibits the sale, transfer, or delivery of a firearm to anyone under the age of 21, with some exceptions.
Exceptions:
There are two exceptions to the minimum age requirement in South Carolina. The first exception is for individuals who are military personnel or their spouses. These individuals are exempt from the minimum age requirement and can purchase a handgun at any age. The second exception is for individuals who are over 18 years old and have completed a background check and received a certification from the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
Background Checks:
Background checks are an important part of the handgun purchasing process in South Carolina. These checks are conducted by the SLED to ensure that the individual is not prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm due to certain criminal convictions, mental health issues, or other disqualifying factors.
To obtain a background check in South Carolina, an individual must submit an application to the SLED and pay a fee. The SLED will then conduct a review of the individual’s background and provide a certification within 5-7 days. This certification is required for the individual to lawfully possess or purchase a handgun.
Table: Background Check Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be over 21 years old or meet one of the exceptions |
| Background Check | Must submit an application and pay a fee |
| Certification | Must receive certification from the SLED before purchasing a handgun |
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the answer to the question "Can I buy a handgun at 18 in SC?" is no. The minimum age requirement to purchase a handgun in South Carolina is 21 years old, with some exceptions for military personnel and individuals who have completed a background check and received certification from the SLED.
It’s important to understand the legal requirements and regulations surrounding handgun ownership and possession in South Carolina. Failing to comply with these requirements can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Additional Information:
For more information on handgun ownership and possession in South Carolina, visit the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) website at www.sled.sc.gov. You can also contact your local authorities or a licensed firearms dealer for more information.
