South Dakota Concealed Carry
South Dakota stands out as a pro-Second Amendment state that gives law-abiding citizens many options for legally carrying firearms. In this article, we’ll dive into concealed carry laws South Dakota, how these regulations compare to CCW requirements by state, and the importance of concealed carry training for gun owners. We’ll also touch on self-defense statutes, permit distinctions, and where you can and cannot carry in the Mount Rushmore State. Read on to learn about the details you need to exercise your rights responsibly, safely, and confidently.
Table of Contents
Overview of Concealed Carry Laws South Dakota
South Dakota became a permitless carry (also known as constitutional carry) state as of July 1, 2019. This means any individual 18 years or older who can legally possess a firearm may carry it concealed without needing a separate permit. At the same time, the state continues to offer three types of Concealed Pistol Permits (CPP):
- Regular Permit
- Gold Card Permit
- Enhanced Permit
While concealed carry laws South Dakota let you carry without a permit, many still opt for a formal permit to take advantage of reciprocity and other benefits, such as bypassing background checks on firearm purchases for certain permit types.
Minimum Age & Permit Basics
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old to carry concealed without a permit.
- Shall-Issue: Should you choose to get a permit, South Dakota’s system is “shall-issue.” This means that if you meet the application requirements, your local sheriff’s office must grant you a permit.
- No Handgun Registration: South Dakota does not require registration of firearms.
- No Waiting Period: You can purchase a handgun without having to wait a mandatory number of days.
Types of Concealed Pistol Permits
Although not mandatory to legally conceal carry, South Dakota’s three permit options each come with specific perks:
Regular Concealed Pistol Permit
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Requires no additional fingerprint-based background check.
- Valid for five years.
- Recognized by many other states (though fewer than the Enhanced version).
Gold Card Permit
- Also valid for five years.
- Includes fingerprinting and a federal background check.
- Recognized in additional states beyond the Regular Permit (32 States).
- Qualifies as proof you have passed the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) when buying firearms.
Enhanced Permit
- Must be at least 21 years old.
- Requires fingerprinting, a federal background check, concealed carry training with live-fire instruction (at least 98 rounds), and a dedicated firearms safety course.
- Recognized by the greatest number of states, allowing broader reciprocity (37 States).
- Holders can carry in county courthouses and the State Capitol building (with 24-hour prior notice to the Highway Patrol superintendent).
Self-Defense, Stand Your Ground, and Castle Doctrine
South Dakota’s concealed carry laws South Dakota align with robust self-defense statutes. The state has both a Castle Doctrine and a Stand Your Ground policy:
- Stand Your Ground: No duty to retreat if you are in a place where you have a legal right to be, and you believe deadly force is necessary to prevent serious harm or the commission of a forcible felony.
- Castle Doctrine: Protects you when you are in your dwelling, residence, or occupied vehicle, allowing you to use deadly force if you reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death, great bodily harm, or a forcible felony.
Additionally, state law grants immunity from criminal prosecution and civil liability to lawful carriers who justifiably defend themselves or others. For more information on self-defense laws check out our online rescues guide.
Where You Can Carry (and Where You Cannot)
Generally Allowed Locations
- Private Property: You can carry openly or concealed in your own home or place of business without a permit.
- Vehicles: Anyone at least 18 years old can carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle.
- Roadside Rest Areas: Concealed carry is allowed.
- State/National Parks & Wildlife Management Areas: Permitted under state law.
- Bars & Restaurants: You may carry in the dining area of establishments that serve alcohol, unless otherwise posted. However, you cannot conceal carry in the bar section itself if more than 50% of the establishment’s sales come from alcohol.
Restricted Locations
- Elementary & Secondary Schools (including school buses).
- County Courthouses & State Capitol (though Enhanced Permit holders can carry in many government buildings after giving prior notice).
- Establishments Earning 50%+ from Alcohol Sales: Concealed carry is prohibited in areas designated as bars.
- Game Preserves/Refuges: Off-limits for concealed carry.
- Any Place Prohibited by Federal Law: Federal buildings, certain secure facilities, etc.
Note on Tribal Lands: Rules on tribal property can differ significantly. For some tribes (e.g., Oglala Sioux, Rosebud Sioux), the answer is outright “no.” Others may allow it with recognized permits, or with additional approvals. Always contact tribal authorities beforehand to confirm their requirements.
Purchasing & Possessing Firearms in South Dakota
- No Registration: The state does not require handguns to be registered.
- Background Checks on Private Sales: Not mandated, although federal laws still apply. Keeping a record of private transfers is advised.
- Permit Fees: As of 2022, permit fees have been removed. Other costs (like fingerprinting for Gold Card or Enhanced) may still apply.
Concealed Carry Training & CCW Requirements by State
Because South Dakota allows permitless carry, not every gun owner enrolls in a course. However, if you want an Enhanced Permit or prefer broader recognition in other states, you need concealed carry training. South Dakota mandates a qualifying handgun course for Enhanced applicants. This course must include:
- Basic handgun safety.
- South Dakota law on firearms and use of force.
- Live-fire practice with at least 98 rounds.
- Self-defense principles and safe storage considerations.
Comparing CCW requirements by state often reveals that training standards vary widely. If you travel frequently, an Enhanced Permit can increase the number of states honoring your South Dakota license.
Traveling & Reciprocity
With concealed carry laws South Dakota set up to be so flexible, many folks wonder how traveling out of state works. Because of permitless carry, any person 18+ who can lawfully own a firearm may carry concealed in South Dakota without a permit. But the reverse isn’t always true: other states have their own guidelines.
South Dakota Recognizes All State-Issued Permits
Anyone with a valid out-of-state permit can carry in South Dakota.Other States That Honor South Dakota Permits
States like Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, and more recognize at least one category of South Dakota’s permits. That said, some only honor the Enhanced Permit, or they impose age restrictions.Permitless Carry States
If you’re traveling to or through a permitless carry state like Alaska, Arizona, or Missouri, you typically won’t need a specific South Dakota permit. Nonetheless, always verify local regulations before carrying.
Renewing or Upgrading Your Permit
South Dakota’s Regular, Gold Card, and Enhanced Permits all remain valid for five years. Temporary permits are issued within five days, but the official version can take up to 30 days. Renewals:
- Regular Permit: Renewable 90 days prior to expiration with a 30-day grace period post-expiry.
- Gold Card & Enhanced: Renewals require additional steps, including a background check. Enhanced renewals also need live-fire instruction if your permit has expired more than 30 days.
- Fee: In most cases, the fee is eliminated, although fingerprint processing fees might still apply for Gold Card or Enhanced.
Responsible Carry Tips
- Stay Informed: Laws can change. Keep up to date on any new regulations regarding concealed carry laws South Dakota.
- Train Regularly: Even if you’re not pursuing an Enhanced Permit, a solid concealed carry training regimen builds skill and confidence.
- Respect Posted Signs: Although “No Weapons Allowed” signs may not carry the force of criminal law in South Dakota, private property rights matter.
- Know Your Surroundings: If you’re going to a bar or anywhere with large crowds, be aware of any restrictions that could apply.
- Research Reciprocity: Use official resources or a trusted reciprocity map tool if you plan to carry in other states.
Conclusion - Policing the Brass
With South Dakota’s pro-Second Amendment approach, it’s no surprise that concealed carry laws South Dakota are among the most accommodating in the nation. Whether you choose to carry without a permit, opt for a Regular Permit, or seek the Enhanced Permit for maximum reciprocity, understanding the state’s self-defense statutes, permissible carry locations, and renewal processes is essential. Remaining a responsible, informed gun owner ensures your rights stay protected—and helps maintain South Dakota’s reputation as a firearm-friendly state. For a free downloadable PDF of South Dakota’s laws, visit Handgunlaw.us.
Concealed Carry Laws South Dakota: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. There is no statute in South Dakota prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | South Dakota is a shall-issue state. Anyone meeting the requirements can obtain a concealed pistol permit from the sheriff in their county of residence. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Yes. Open carry is legal without a permit for individuals at least 18 years old who can lawfully possess a firearm. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess in South Dakota without a permit. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | No. A concealed pistol permit in South Dakota applies only to handguns, so other weapons are not covered under permitless carry or the permit itself. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | No. South Dakota does not impose specific ammunition restrictions. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns in South Dakota. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | You must be at least 18 years old to conceal carry in South Dakota. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | Yes. As of July 1, 2019, South Dakota allows permitless (constitutional) carry for anyone 18 or older who can legally possess a firearm. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | You may carry in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol, unless it is posted. However, carrying is not allowed in bars or bar areas of restaurants. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | Yes. Concealed carry is allowed in these areas in South Dakota. Always check federal guidelines when in national parks or forests. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes. Anyone at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm may carry a handgun in a vehicle without a permit. [S.D. Codified Laws §§ 23-7-7.4 & 23-7-7] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | South Dakota statutes do not specifically address firearms in hotels. Each hotel sets its own policy, so contact the hotel for its concealed carry rules. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes. South Dakota allows concealed carry at roadside rest areas. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | South Dakota law does not address storing firearms in private vehicles within employee parking lots. Employers may set their own policies. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No. South Dakota does not allow public access to the concealed carry registry through public records law. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | No. There is no requirement to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying a concealed firearm in South Dakota. [S.D. Codified Laws § 22-14-9.1] |
| RED FLAG LAW? | No. South Dakota does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | No. These signs are not enforced by state law in South Dakota, so violating a posted sign is not considered a criminal offense. |
| TRIBAL LAND | Carrying on tribal land varies by tribe:
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| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | South Dakota statutes do not specifically address it. However, carrying while impaired can lead to poor decision-making and is strongly discouraged. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Members of the military and their spouses stationed in South Dakota can apply for a concealed carry permit as non-residents. |
| BRANDISHING? | No direct definition in state law. However, intentionally causing public alarm or inconvenience can result in a charge of disorderly conduct. [S.D. Codified Laws § 22-18-35] |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | No. A South Dakota driver’s license is not automatically linked to a concealed pistol permit. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes. South Dakota law supersedes local ordinances regarding firearms possession. If a municipality attempts to pass restrictive ordinances, the attorney general may file for injunctive relief. [S.D. Codified Laws § 7-18A-36, § 8-5-13, § 9-19-20] |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | No. There is no waiting period after purchasing a handgun in South Dakota. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | Yes, for Regular Permits issued on or after July 1, 2018, and Gold Card or Enhanced Permits issued on or after January 1, 2017. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | No. A permit is not required to purchase a handgun in South Dakota. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | No. Background checks are not required on private transfers, although federal and state prohibitions still apply. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 18 years old. [S.D. Codified Laws § 23-7-46] |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. Permitless carry applies to anyone legally entitled to have a firearm, including at home or on private property. [S.D. Codified Laws § 23-7-7] |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | No. South Dakota does not require handgun registration. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA HONOR? | South Dakota recognizes permits from all other states. Since the state is permitless carry, any person 18 or older who can legally possess a firearm may carry concealed. However, for reciprocity purposes, South Dakota issues three types of permits: Regular, Gold Card, and Enhanced. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA? | The following states honor permits from South Dakota (with varying age or permit-type restrictions): PC indicates permitless carry, with listed minimum ages. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA? | These states impose additional restrictions or only honor particular South Dakota permit types (Resident-only, Enhanced-only, or minimum age requirements). They include: Alaska (PC 21+), Arizona (PC 21+), Colorado (21+, residents only), Delaware (Enhanced only), Florida (PC 21+), Georgia (PC 21+), Iowa (PC 21+), Kansas (PC 21+), Kentucky (PC 21+), Louisiana (PC 21+), Maine (PC 21+), Michigan (21+, resident permits only), Minnesota (Enhanced only & 21+), Mississippi (PC 21+), Missouri (PC 19+, 18 for military), Nebraska (PC 21+), Nevada (Enhanced only), New Mexico (Enhanced only), Ohio (PC 21+), Oklahoma (PC 21+), Pennsylvania (21+, resident permits only), South Carolina (PC 18+), Tennessee (PC 18+), Texas (PC 21+), Utah (PC 21+), Virginia (21+), Washington (Enhanced only), West Virginia (PC 21+), Wisconsin (only Enhanced & Gold, 21+), Wyoming (PC 21+). |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | The following permitless carry (constitutional carry) states are listed, along with minimum ages: Alabama (19+), Alaska (21+), Arizona (21+), Arkansas (18+), Florida (21+), Georgia (21+), Idaho (18+), Indiana (18+), Iowa (21+), Kansas (21+), Kentucky (21+), Louisiana (21+), Maine (21+), Mississippi (21+), Missouri (19+, 18 for military), Montana (18+), Nebraska (21+), New Hampshire (18+), North Dakota (18+), Ohio (21+), Oklahoma (21+), South Carolina (18+), Tennessee (18+), Texas (21+), Utah (21+), Vermont (18+), West Virginia (21+), Wyoming (21+). |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Write a letter to the Secretary of State with your name, DOB, address, and $2. Send to Secretary of State, Attn: Permits, 500 E. Capitol Ave., Pierre, SD 57501. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | All South Dakota concealed pistol permits (Regular, Gold Card, and Enhanced) are valid for 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | There is a Link to sample application made available by the state; you must complete the temporary application in person at the sheriff’s office. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes, but only to members of the military and their spouses stationed in South Dakota. The process mirrors that for residents. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF SOUTH DAKOTA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move into South Dakota, you may apply for a permit after 30 days’ residency in a county or as an active-duty military member/spouse. If you move out of South Dakota, your permit expires once you establish residency in another state. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | As of March 18, 2022, fees for concealed carry permits have been removed in South Dakota, although fingerprint/background check costs may still apply. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | Temporary permits generally take 5 days. Official permits are usually issued within 30 days. Enhanced/Gold Card permits may take longer due to fingerprint background checks. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Send a letter to the Secretary of State with your name, DOB, old address, new address (or former name and new name), permit number, and $2. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | An applicant must be at least 18 (21 for Enhanced/Gold), be a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien, have no felony/violent crime convictions, no record of controlled substance offenses, and meet all federal requirements. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? |
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| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Only the Enhanced Permit requires a training course covering South Dakota firearm/use-of-force laws, self-defense principles, safe handgun use, and a minimum of 98 live-fire rounds. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? |
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| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? |
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| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? |
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| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is illegal to interfere intentionally with any person lawfully taking or attempting to take game/fish. [S.D. Cod. Laws § 41-1-8] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes. You may concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in South Dakota. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes. A valid concealed pistol permit does not prohibit you from carrying a pistol while bow hunting. [SD GF&P Big Game Regulations] |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | All knife types are legal and can be carried openly or concealed, provided there is no intent to commit a felony. Knives are banned on certain grounds like schools, courthouses, and the state capitol. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes. There is no specific law in South Dakota preventing you from wearing a COVID mask while carrying concealed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Retired LEOs must qualify annually with their duty handgun on a certified course. A passing score of 75% or better is required. [SD Admin Rule § 2:01:06:17.01] |
Legal Note
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances can vary. It is solely the reader’s responsibility to verify the accuracy and applicability of any information presented here. The author, publisher, and any affiliated entities assume no liability for actions taken by readers based on the content of this article. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.
