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South Dakota Statewide Rule

South Dakota Concealed Carry Permit and Constitutional Carry

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across South Dakota (2026)

Key Facts

Constitutional Carry
Constitutional carry adopted in 2019
Minimum
Minimum age 18 for permitless carry
Permit
Enhanced and gold permits provide reciprocity
Permit
Permits issued by county sheriffs
Schools And
Schools and courthouses remain off-limits
Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: South Dakota Legislature

Summary

South Dakota allows constitutional carry for residents 18 and older and offers enhanced and gold permits for reciprocity with other states under SDCL Title 23.

A permit to carry a concealed pistol must be issued to any applicant by the sheriff of the county in which the applicant resides. The permit must be valid throughout the state and must be issued pursuant to § 23-7-7.1. For purposes of verifying the qualifications of an applicant, prior to issuing a permit, the sheriff shall execute, and the applicant shall pass, a background investigation, including a computer check of available on-line records and a check utilizing the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. The issuance of a permit to carry a concealed pistol under this chapter does not impose a general prohibition on the carrying of a pistol without a permit.

Source: South Dakota LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Since 2019, South Dakota permits permitless concealed carry for any person 18 or older who may legally possess a firearm under SDCL 23-7-7. Optional regular, enhanced, and gold concealed pistol permits remain available for residents seeking reciprocity in states requiring permits. Enhanced and gold permits require fingerprinting, NICS background checks, and handgun training. Carry is prohibited in courthouses, schools, and certain restricted facilities.

Violations & Penalties

Carrying concealed where prohibited or by a disqualified person is a Class 1 misdemeanor; falsifying permit applications can be a Class 6 felony with fines and possible jail time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to carry concealed in South Dakota?
No. South Dakota residents 18 and older who can legally possess a firearm may carry concealed without a permit under SDCL 23-7-7.
Why get a permit if carry is permitless?
Permits offer reciprocity with other states and exempt holders from federal firearm purchase background checks at point of sale.

Sources

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