Summary of Tennessee Gun Laws
Tennessee is a shall-issue state with concealed weapons permits issued at the state level by the Department of Safety & Homeland Security.
There is no permit, background check or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual.
Open carry is legal with a permit or without a permit if the gun is unloaded and the ammunition is not in the immediate vicinity. Tennessee prohibits the possession of a firearm “with the intent to go armed.” The minimum age is 18 years old. Some areas are off-limits, including government buildings and schools.
Concealed carry is legal with a license/permit. The minimum age is 21 years old. Tennessee Handgun Carry Permits (HCP) require the successful completion of a state-approved handgun safety course that includes both classroom hours and firing-range instruction. Note-As of January 1, 2020, Senate Bill 705, will create two levels of HCP’s. Applicants will be able to obtain a handgun carry permit by just taking an online course which will allow them to carry a concealed firearm. The enhanced HCP will require completion of an 8-hour live training course from certified instructors and will allow permittees to carry a gun openly or concealed to more places. Non-residents can only obtain an HCP if they work in the state on a regular basis. They can only make an application after being employed for six months and then only within six months after the initial six-month work period. In terms of reciprocity, Tennessee honors all concealed carry permits from other states.
Tennessee is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. A person who is in a place lawfully and who is not engaged in illegal activity has no duty to retreat before using or threatening to use force that’s likely to cause serious bodily injury or death if:
- The person reasonably believes there’s an imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death; the danger is real or honestly believed to be real at the time; and
- The belief of danger is founded upon reasonable grounds. A person who uses deadly force within a residence, business, dwelling or vehicle is presumed to have held a reasonable belief of imminent death or serious bodily injury to self, family, a member of the household or a person visiting as an invited guest when the force is used against someone who unlawfully and forcibly entered the place.
Tennessee Gun Laws Quick Links
Reciprocity | Permit Information | Permit Application | Permit Renewal | LEOs & RLEOs | Location Restrictions | Recent Updates
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Tennessee Gun Laws at a Glance
Open Carry/ Concealed Carry Basics
Constitutional Carry?Does Tennessee allow constitutional carry? |
No. Tennessee does not allow constitutional carry. |
Open Carry Permitted?Is open carry permitted in Tennessee? |
Yes, with a permit or unloaded with the ammunition not in the immediate vicinity. |
Gun Permit Licensure?If Tennessee requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? |
Tennessee provides permits on a shall-issue basis. |
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?What is the minimum age in Tennessee to get a concealed carry permit? |
You must be 21 to concealed carry in Tennessee. |
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Tennessee with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? |
No. A Tennessee HCP does not cover the concealed carry of weapons besides handguns. |
Tasers or Stun Guns?Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Tennessee? |
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess for self-defense, without a permit. |
Non-Resident Permitting?Does Tennessee issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? |
Yes, for military personnel and persons who work in the state on a regular basis. |
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry?Does Tennessee allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? |
No. The public cannot access Tennessee's concealed carry registry. |
Carry Locations
Carry in Vehicle?Can you carry a concealed firearm in a vehicle in Tennessee? |
Yes, anyone who is not otherwise prohibited from owning a firearm and is in lawful possession of the motor vehicle is not in violation of the open carry law in Tennessee as long as the firearm is not carried on one's person. |
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Tennessee? |
Yes. Valid license holders may carry concealed handguns at roadside rest areas in Tennessee. |
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Tennessee? |
Yes, with a valid concealed carry permit. |
Carry in Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?Can you carry a firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Tennessee? |
Yes, with a valid concealed carry permit, unless posted and provided you don’t consume any alcohol. |
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?Does Tennessee have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? |
Handgun carry permit holders may also store their firearms in their vehicles on public or private property so long as the vehicle is in a place it is allowed to be and the firearm is kept from ordinary observation in a locked compartment within the vehicle or in a container securely affixed to such motor vehicle. Employers cannot prohibit their employees from transporting or storing a firearm or firearm ammunition in an employer parking area if the firearm or ammunition is kept from ordinary observation in a locked compartment within the vehicle or in a container securely affixed to such motor vehicle. |
Additional Related State Laws
Must Notify Officer You're Carrying?Are you required to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Tennessee? |
No. However, the law will change as of January 1, 2020, after which you will have to notify. [Tenn. Code. Ann. § 39-171351(n)(1)] Public Chapter No. 479(e) [SB 705] |
Magazine Limits for Handguns?Does Tennessee have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? |
No. There are no restrictions on handgun magazines in Tennessee. |
Ammunition Restrictions?Does Tennessee have ammunition restrictions? |
No. Tennessee does not restrict handgun ammunition. |
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Tennessee? If yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense. |
Yes. An individual, corporation, business entity, or local, state or federal government entity or agent thereof is authorized to prohibit the possession of weapons by any person who is at a meeting conducted by, or on property owned, operated or managed or under the control of, the individual, corporation, business entity or government entity. Handgun carry permit holders are subject to this prohibition, although a property owner may make an exception for a handgun to be carried in a concealed manner by persons authorized to do so. Prohibited areas must display the notice in prominent locations, including all entrances primarily used by persons entering the property, building, or portion of the property or building where weapon possession is prohibited or restricted. The notice shall be plainly visible to the average person entering the building, property, or portion of the building or property, posted. A sign shall be used as the method of posting.
Under Tennessee law, local governments are generally prohibited from preventing concealed carry permit holders from possessing handguns on property owned or administered by the local government unless the building provides metal detectors and security officers at each public entrance to the building. However, these public building requirements do not apply to specified buildings, including schools, colleges or universities, libraries, licensed mental health and substance abuse facilities, law enforcement agency buildings, and courtrooms. Possession of a weapon on posted property in violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by fine only of $500. This section shall not apply to the grounds of any public park, natural area, historic park, nature trail, campground, forest, greenway, waterway or other similar public place that is owned or operated by the state, a county, a municipality or instrumentality thereof. The carrying of firearms in those areas are governed by § 39-17-1311. |
Preemption?Does Tennessee have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)? |
Yes. The authority to regulate firearms is reserved to the state, except municipalities may regulate:
|
Red Flag Law?Does Tennessee have a red flag law? |
No. Tennessee does not have an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law. |
Carry while using alcohol or prescription medication?Does Tennessee have laws regarding carrying a firearm while using alcohol or prescription medication? |
Not while consuming or under the influence. [Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1321] As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgement, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession
Purchase Permits?Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Tennessee? |
No. Permits are not required when purchasing a handgun in Tennessee. |
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?Are background checks required for private gun sales in Tennessee? |
No. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun. |
Waiting Period?Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Tennessee? |
No. There is no state-mandated waiting period for handgun purchases in Tennessee. |
Handgun Registration?Do handguns need to be registered in Tennessee? |
No. Handgun registration is not required in Tennessee. |
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Tennessee? |
The minimum age to possess or transport a handgun is 18 years old. |
Carry While Hunting
Carry While Gun Hunting?Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Tennessee? |
Yes. Pursuant to TCA 39-17-1351, persons with a valid handgun carry permit may possess a handgun the entire year while on the premise of any TWRA refuge, public hunting area, wildlife management area (including the North and South Cherokee WMA), and private land. For other federally managed properties hunters should contact that specific facility or location. Nothing in this subsection shall authorize a person to use any handgun to hunt unless such person is in full compliance with all wildlife laws, rules and regulations. |
Carry While Bow Hunting?Can you concealed carry while bowhunting in Tennessee? |
Yes, individuals who possess a carry permit may possess their handgun while on TWRA wildlife management areas, public hunting areas, or refuges open to hunter access. The handgun may not be used for taking game unless specifically permitted by TWRA regulation. TWRA will apply this same interpretation to those possessing carry permits while hunting on private lands. |
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State Constitutional Provision
Tennessee Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
Which states' permits does Tennessee honor?
Tennessee honors all concealed carry permits from other states provided the person carrying a handgun has the permit in their possession whenever carrying a firearm. The minimum age is 21 years old.
Other States' Reciprocity With Tennessee
Which states honor permits from Tennessee?
Your content here.
Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.
States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Tennessee
Your content here.
Permitless Carry States
Anyone who can legally possess a firearm may carry it concealed in permitless carry states without a permit/license. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.
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Discover MembershipTennessee Concealed Carry Permit Information
Requirements: |
An applicant must:
|
Fees: |
$100 for the initial permit or $300 for lifetime permit As of 1/1/20 |
Valid For: |
8 years |
Processing Time: |
90 days |
Application: |
|
Enhanced Application: |
As of Jan. 1, 2020, the existing permit will be redesignated as the enhanced handgun carry permit. Those who wish to obtain an enhanced carry permit may carry the gun openly or concealed to more places but must still take an 8-hour live training course from certified instructors, undergo a criminal background check and pay a $100 permit fee. |
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits: |
To qualify for a non-resident permit, the applicant must reside in another state and work in Tennessee on a regular basis. The other requirements are that they have been employed for at least 6 months before making the application and hold a valid concealed carry permit in their home state. They also have a limited time to file the application: within a 6-month period AFTER having worked in the state for 6 months. The application process is the same as for residents. |
Name/Address Changes: |
By law if you move, you are required to notify the state of your new address within 60 days. You may notify the Department of Safety to change your address on our records, online or in writing to Handgun Permit Office, If you wish to receive a permit with your new address, or if you have misplaced or lost your handgun carry permit, you will need to apply for a duplicate by completing an application. You may get duplicate application at any Driver Services Center or by calling (615) 251-8590. Mail the application and the $5.00 fee payable by check or money order to: Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security |
Lost/Stolen Permits: |
To receive a duplicate HCP, you will need to complete an online application or visit a Driver Services Center for a hard copy application. Complete and sign your application. Mail the application and the $5.00 fee to: Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security Handgun Permit Office |
Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit Application Process
How to Apply for a Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit
Step 1: |
Complete a firearm training course if required. |
Step 2: |
Complete the online application or visit a Driver Services Center. You will need the following:
|
Step 3: |
When your application is processed at the Driver Service Center, you will be given instructions on being fingerprinted. |
Step 4: |
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved. |
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On May 29, the Governor signed SB 705 into law which creates a two tier carry permit system. The law, which will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2020, creates a new concealed handgun carry permit which requires the handgun be carried concealed and redesignates the existing permit as an enhanced handgun carry permit, which allows residents to carry openly or concealed. The new concealed handgun carry permit is cheaper and requires no live-firearm training, but it can be carried in fewer public places. As of Jan. 1, concealed handgun carry permits will require the applicant to:
Concealed handgun carry permit holders will not be allowed to carry in the locations covered by Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1311 which includes public park, natural area, historic park, nature trail, campground, forest, greenway, waterway, or other similar public place that is owned or operated by the state, a county, a municipality, or instrumentality of the state, a county, or municipality. Those who wish to obtain an enhanced carry permit may carry the gun openly or concealed to more places but must still take an 8-hour live training course from certified instructors, undergo a criminal background check and pay a $100 permit fee. |
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Firearms Training Requirements in Tennessee
Handgun courses must be certified by the Tennessee Department of Safety and must have been completed within the last 12 months. A component of the classroom portion of all department-approved handgun safety courses must be instruction on alcohol and drugs, the effects of those substances on a person’s reflexes, judgment and ability to safely handle a firearm, and the Tennessee prohibition against possession of a handgun while under the influence. There are exemptions for military personnel, law enforcement and security guards.
As of January 1, 2020, Senate Bill 705, will allow people to obtain their carry permit by obtaining training a number of ways which include a hunter education or hunter safety course, holding a previous, unrevoked Tennessee HCP, equivalent experience with a firearm through documented participation in organized shooting competition, other approved firearms training or an online course.
Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit Renewal Process
How to Renew a Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit
Step 1: |
Handgun Permits can be renewed within 6 months before the expiry date. Permits can be renewed up to one cycle past the expiry date. A new application will need to be made if more than 8 years has elapsed since the expiry date. |
Step 2: |
Complete the online application or visit a Driver Services Center. Some You can also inquire as to whether your County clerk's office provides this service. You will need the following:
Pay the fee. |
Step 3: |
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved. |
Law Enforcement Officers (LEO)/Retired LEOs
Law enforcement officers (LEOs) and Retired LEOs (RLEOs) may choose to carry under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA), often referred to as HR 218. Under 18 U.S. Code §§ 926B & 926C, qualified LEOs and qualified retired LEOs, or those separated from service in good standing, can carry a concealed firearm in any jurisdiction in the United States, regardless of state or local laws, with some exceptions. For details check out our Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) page.
Tennessee allows for two options for Retired Law Enforcement Officers who want to carry firearms into retirement:
1. Valid in Tennessee only – In accordance with T.C.A. § 38-8-116, an RLEO certified under this option is not permitted to carry a firearm outside of Tennessee unless otherwise authorized. A TBI/FBI criminal history record check and qualification to carry a firearm of the same type according to the standards established by the Tennessee Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Commission are required every four years.
2. Pursuant to T.C.A. § 38-8-123, an RLEO certified under this option is eligible to carry a firearm nationwide under federal law. This certification requires an annual qualification to carry a firearm of the same type according to the standards established by the Tennessee POST Commission and an annual TBI/FBI criminal history record check. This certification is valid for only one year.
Tennessee POST Retired LEO Info Packet and Fillable Initial Application
Tennessee POST Renewal Packet & Fillable Application
Tennessee Location Restrictions
Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Tennessee? |
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Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Tennessee?Places off-limits even with a permit/license |
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FAQ: Tennessee Concealed Carry Questions
What Are the Knife Laws in Tennessee? |
There are no prohibited knives under Tennessee statutes. |
Tennessee Gun Laws Updates:
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| 2019-09-09 | Added Carry While Hunting info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-08-13 | Added anchor links to various sections below the Summary |
| 2019-07-29 | Updated info regarding SB 705 to the General, Permit Application Process and Training sections |
| 2019-07-26 | Added minimum age to possess and transport a handgun to At A Glance table |
| 2019-07-23 | Updated the Permit Renewal table new ability for some County clerks to issue renewals |
| 2019-07-01 | Updated Permit Info and Application Process sections with additional Public Ch. No. 479 (HB1264) information |
| 2019-05-28 | Added HB 1264 regarding new 2-tiered permit levels to permit info |
| 2019-05-24 | Added stun gun/Taser info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-05-03 | Added permit renewal and name/address change info |
| 2019-04-19 | Links checked |
| 2019-04-02 | Added info on state implementation of Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) |
| 2019-02-22 | Added info to vehicle carry in At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-15 | Added pages for Federal Gun Laws, Traveling with Firearms & Terminology |
| 2019-02-09 | Added ammunition restrictions to At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-06 | Added red flag law info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-01 | Added info to |
| 2019-01-25 | Added church info to location restrictions section |
| 2019-01-24 | Added FAQ about alcohol or prescription medication |
| 2019-01-10 | Mag limit added to At A Glance table |
| 2018-12-13 | Added preemption info to At A Glance table |
| 2018-11-30 | Added parking lot info to At A Glance table |
| 2018-11-27 | Added links |
| 2018-10-22 | Added initial CCW law and reciprocity information for Tennessee |
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Permit numbers were obtained from the Crime Prevention Resource Center’s publication entitled, “Concealed Carry Permit Holders Across the United States: 2018.” Numbers include resident and non-resident permits for those states that issue both.
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 individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.
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