South Carolina Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What level of intoxication prohibits a person from carrying a firearm in South Carolina?

1. Any level of intoxication

2. A blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher

3. A blood alcohol content of 0.05% or lower

4. Intoxication is not specifically addressed in the law

The correct answer is: A blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher

In South Carolina, the law specifically prohibits carrying a firearm when a person has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This legal threshold aligns with the standard set for operating a motor vehicle. The rationale behind this law is to ensure public safety, as an elevated level of intoxication significantly impairs a person's judgment, coordination, and reaction time, which are critical when handling a firearm. Maintaining a BAC below this limit allows individuals to carry firearms legally, so long as they are not exhibiting signs of impaired judgment. However, it's noteworthy that even if a person has a BAC lower than 0.08%, they can still be subject to law enforcement scrutiny if they display obvious signs of impairment. This underscores the importance of being not only within legal limits but also exercising responsible behavior when it comes to alcohol consumption and firearm safety.