Carrying a firearm for self-defense comes with a lot of responsibility. Knowing the laws where you carry is just one important task you must undertake as an armed American. To help with that, we’ve provided a comprehensive overview of Tennessee gun laws. Learn about the most important things to know when carrying in the Volunteer State below.
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Can You Carry a Gun in Tennessee?
In July of 2021, Tennessee law created a statutory “exception” to Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-1307(g) and (h), provided seven specific conditions are met. The new law allows open or concealed carry of a handgun in some public locations without a permit if the following conditions are satisfied:
- Is at least 21 years of age* (or 18 years old with honorable military service or active duty with completed training)
- May lawfully possess a handgun under federal law
- Is in a place where the person is lawfully present
- Has not been convicted of stalking
- Has not had multiple DUI convictions within the past 10 years
- Has not been adjudicated as mentally defective or committed to a mental institution
- Is not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law
*In April 2021, the Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) sued Tennessee over restrictions on 18- to 20-year-olds carrying concealed firearms. In January 2023, Tennessee agreed the restrictions were unconstitutional and ceased enforcement immediately (full details here).
Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit
There are two levels of carry permits in Tennessee:
- Handgun Carry Permit (HCP): Requires a 90-minute online course. Allows open or concealed carry in certain places.
- Enhanced HCP (EHCP): Requires an 8-hour live course from a certified instructor. Authorizes open or concealed carry in more locations than the basic HCP.
Non-residents can only obtain an HCP if they work in Tennessee on a regular basis and hold a valid permit in their home state.
Stand Your Ground
Tennessee has a “stand your ground” statute. A person lawfully present and not engaged in illegal activity has no duty to retreat before using force likely to cause serious injury or death. Deadly force is presumed justified inside one’s residence, business, dwelling or vehicle.
Gun Purchase and Handgun Registration Requirements
No permit is required to buy a handgun. Tennessee does not require firearms registration, background checks for private sales, waiting periods or magazine capacity limits.
Explosive ammunition designed to detonate on impact is banned. Suppressors are legal in Tennessee but remain regulated under federal law.
Less-Lethal Legal Self-Defense Weapons
Stun guns, Tasers and pepper spray are all legal to purchase and carry for self-defense without a permit. Tennessee honors concealed carry permits from all other states.
Where Can One Carry Concealed in Tennessee?
Anyone legally allowed to possess a firearm may carry a handgun openly or concealed in:
- Motor vehicles
- Restaurants that serve alcohol (unless posted and provided the carrier does not consume alcohol)
- Places of worship (unless posted and not being used for school purposes)
EHCP holders or out-of-state permit holders may also carry in:
- Roadside rest areas
- State/national parks
- State/national forests
- Wildlife Management Areas
Concealed carry is prohibited, even with an EHCP, in:
- Public and private school campuses, buses and sponsored activities
- Higher education campuses, except limited employee exceptions
- Penal institutions
- TVA recreational lands
- Posted meetings or properties
- While under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- When consuming alcohol in establishments serving alcohol
- Secured areas of airports
- Any location prohibited by federal or state law
Can You Carry a Gun in Your Car Without a Permit in Tennessee?
Yes. Anyone not otherwise prohibited from firearm possession may legally carry a handgun — openly or concealed — inside their own vehicle.
Can a Felon Own a Gun in Tennessee?
Some felony convictions may disqualify firearm ownership. Tennessee law allows expungement in certain cases, restoring rights. Those seeking restoration should consult an experienced attorney.
Ready to Learn More About Tennessee Gun Laws?
It is your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA’s Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws Tool helps armed citizens stay informed. For Tennessee’s full permit process, restrictions and training requirements, visit the Tennessee gun laws page.
Protect Yourself Before, During and After a Self-Defense Incident
A self-defense encounter can change your life in seconds. With a USCCA Membership, you’ll have access to education, training and legal protection resources to help you navigate every stage responsibly.
The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. Members and the concealed carry community and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each case. Laws are continually changing and, as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.
