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.
Tennessee prohibits the possession of a firearm “with the intent to go armed.” However, as of July 1, 2021, a law was passed creating a statutory “exception” which allows permitless open and concealed carry for anyone that at least 18 years old or older, that may lawfully possess a handgun, is in a place where the person has a right to be and meets three additional criteria as defined in the table below. Some areas are off-limits, including government buildings and schools.
*In April 2021, the Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) sued the state of Tennessee for prohibiting 18- to 20-year-olds from carrying a concealed firearm in public or from obtaining a permit, stating that these restrictions were unconstitutional. On Jan. 23, 2023, Attorneys for the state of Tennessee entered into an agreed order in federal court with the FPC. The order stipulates that the state’s restrictions were unconstitutional and that they will no longer be enforced. The order immediately went into effect.
As of January 1, 2020, Senate Bill 705, created two levels of Tennessee concealed handgun carry permits. Applicants may obtain a concealed handgun carry permit (CHCP) by taking a 90-minute online course. The other option is an enhanced handgun carry permit (EHCP) which requires completion of an 8-hour live training course from certified instructors and allows permittees to carry a gun openly or concealed to more places. Non-residents may apply for a HCP if they work in the state on a regular basis and hold a valid concealed carry permit in their home state. 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.
Where can I carry with my Tennessee permit?
Yes
Yes, Constitutional Carry
Yes, Other Restrictions
No
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Important Firearm Laws
preemption?
Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in Tennessee, except municipalities may regulate:
As of July 1, 2021, local governments may not prohibit an enhanced handgun carry permit holder from possessing a handgun on public property unless the local government provides a security system consisting of metal detectors and inspection by trained personnel for such property. However, local governments will not be required to provide metal detectors and security inspections in order to prohibit concealed handgun carry permit holders from possessing firearms on public property.
"no weapons allowed" signs enforced?
Yes, provided the signs which are posted at the discretion of the property owner/manager strictly comply with the content requirements in Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-1359, relative to the images and wording on the sign. Prohibited areas must be posted with appropriately worded signs in prominent locations or portions of the property or building where weapon possession is prohibited or restricted. Concealed 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 a person authorized to do so.
red flag law?
No. Tennessee does not have a red flag law.
carry while using alcohol or controlled substances?
Not while consuming or under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance or controlled substance analogue.
[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.
driver's license linked to carry permit?
Yes. Your Tennessee driver’s license is the same as your Tennessee handgun carry permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will know immediately that you are a concealed carry permit holder if they run your driver’s license.
brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Tennessee law.However, a person commits an offense who, in a public place and with intent to cause public annoyance or alarm, engages in fighting or in violent or threatening behavior.
non-resident permitting?
Yes, for military personnel on active duty in the state and persons who work in the state on a regular basis provided they hold a valid concealed carry permit in their home state.
duty to inform officer you're carrying?
There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Tennessee. A permit holder must have the permit in the holder's immediate possession at all times when carrying a handgun in a location or manner that would be prohibited if not for the person's status as a concealed handgun carry permit holder or an enhanced handgun carry permit holder and must display the permit on demand of a law enforcement officer under such circumstances.
public access to concealed carry registry?
No. The public cannot access Tennessee's concealed carry registry.
Carry Basics
gun permit licensure?
Tennessee provides permits on a shall-issue basis.
weapons other than handguns allowed?
No. A Tennessee HCP does not cover the concealed carry of weapons besides handguns.
magazine limits for handguns?
No. There are no restrictions on handgun magazines in Tennessee.
open carry permitted?
Yes. As of July 1, 2021, permitless open carry is legal for anyone meeting the 7 criteria in the permitless carry section above.
minimum age for concealed carry?
You must be at least 18 years of age.
permitless carry?
Yes. Unlike what may exist In other states, it is a crime under Tennessee law to carry a firearm with the “intent to go armed”. The 2021 law created a statutory “exception” to Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-1307(g) and (h), provided seven specific conditions are met. Therefore, as of July 1, 2021, permitless open and concealed carry is legal for anyone:
[Tennessee Code Annotated, §§ 39-17-1307(a)(1) and 39-17-1307(g) and (h)]
ammunition restrictions?
Yes. It is an offense to manufacture, sell, offer for sale, display for sale or use any ammunition containing a bullet with a hollow-nose cavity that is filled with an explosive material and designed to detonate upon impact. The only exception is for state or federal military personnel.
byrna's?
Yes. These are legal for purchase and possession. Byrna guns are not classified as firearms under Tennessee law.
non-lethal weapons?
STUN GUNS and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess for self-defense, without a permit.
PEPPER SPRAY - Legal for self-defense purposes. Tennessee imposes no restrictions on size or concentration.
TEAR GAS - Legal for self-defense but subject to general misuse laws.
BEAR SPRAY - Legal for self-defense against wildlife. No specific state restrictions, but misuse against humans could lead to legal consequences.
BLUDGEONS AND BATONS - Expandable batons are legal to own and carry in Tennessee. Batons are not classified as "dangerous weapons," so they can be carried openly or concealed without a permit.
Items such as billy clubs, slapjacks, and nightsticks are also legal unless used with criminal intent.
BRASS KNUCKLES - Illegal under Tennessee law. Brass knuckles are classified as "prohibited weapons," and their possession, sale, or carry is banned.
Handgun Purchase & Possession
tennessee permit exempts from background check?
No.
possess a handgun on my private property without a permit?
Yes. A permit is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm in the person’s place of residence, place of business or premises. A private landlord can prohibit tenants, including those who hold handgun carry permits, from possessing firearms within a leased premises. Such a prohibition may be imposed through a clause in the lease and must meet the terms of TCA § 66-28-402.
[Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1308(a)(3)]
background checks for private gun sales?
No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun.
handgun registration?
No. Handgun registration is not required in Tennessee.
purchase permits?
No. Permits are not required when purchasing a handgun in Tennessee.
waiting period?
No. There is no state-mandated waiting period for handgun purchases in Tennessee.
minimum age to possess and transport?
The minimum age to possess or transport a handgun is 18 years old.
Top Gun Laws & Concealed Carry Permit Information For Tennessee Residents
Concealed Carry Basics Faq
wear a covid mask & carry?
There is no known statute in Tennessee making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. A state statute was identified making it illegal to wear a mask as a tool for intimidating anyone from exercising their civil rights. However, there is no mention of concealed carry.
carry while gun hunting?
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?
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.
what are the knife laws in tennessee?
There are no prohibited knives under Tennessee statutes. It is legal to carry a knife openly or concealed as long as there is no intent to commit a crime. It is an offense to carry weapons on school property.
[Tenn. Code. Ann. §§ 39-17-1307(d), 39-17-1309 and 39-17-1324]
hunter harassment law?
Yes. Interference with lawful taking of wildlife, such as hunting, fishing or trapping, is prohibited.
Fees:
Lifetime Enhanced HCP $300 or $200 if upgrading from an 8 year permit. If applying as a veteran, please bring DD-214 with you when applying.
Enhanced HCP $100 for the initial permit & $50 for renewal $65 for active duty or honorably discharged members of the military
Concealed HCP $65 for the initial 8-year permit
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 P.O. Box 23710 Nashville, TN 37202
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits:
To qualify for a non-resident permit, the applicant must be active duty military stationed in the state. The application process is the same as for residents.
Residency Changes:
Moving to Tennessee and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply?Tennessee issues permits to residents, active duty military stationed in the state or out-of-state residents who work in Tennessee on a regular basis and have been employed in the state for at least six months. You can apply for your permit once you can provide evidence that you are a resident or are employed in the state or are stationed in Tennessee.
If a person with a handgun permit from another state decides to become a resident of Tennessee, the person must obtain a Tennessee handgun permit within six months of establishing residency in Tennessee. The permit may be issued based on the person having a permit from another state provided the other state has substantially similar permit eligibility requirements as this state. However, if during the six-month period the person applies for a handgun permit in this state and the application is denied, the person shall not be allowed to carry a handgun in this state based upon the other state's permit.
Moving from Tennessee and have a Tennessee resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Tennessee permit remains valid?If a person with a Tennessee resident handgun carry permit establishes residency in another state, the pistol permit expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.
Requirements:
An applicant must:
*Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Tennessee.
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, P.O. Box 23710,Nashville TN 37202.
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 SecurityHandgun Permit OfficeP.O. Box 23710Nashville TN 37202
Processing Time:
90 days
Application:
Valid For:
8 years
Enhanced Application:
As of Jan. 1, 2020, the existing permit has been 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.
Step 1:
Complete the online application.
Step 2:
Complete a training course, if required. Click here for a list of acceptable exemptions from the handgun safety course.
Step 3:
Go to a Driver Services Center. You may schedule an appointment for your visit by scheduling a Driver License Appointment. You will need the following:
When your application is processed at the Driver Service Center, you will be photographed and given instructions on being fingerprinted.
Step 4:
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved.
carry at roadside rest areas?
Yes, with an enhanced HCP or a concealed carry permit from a state that Tennessee honors.
carry in state/national parks, state/national forests and wildlife management areas (wmas)?
Yes, with an enhanced HCP or a concealed carry permit or a concealed carry permit from a state that Tennessee honors. See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in Tennessee.
carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol?
Yes, without a permit, unless posted and provided you don’t consume any alcohol.
carry/possess at a hotel?
Private businesses may restrict or deny concealed carry on their premises. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about it's concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
carry in vehicle?
Yes, anyone who is not otherwise prohibited from owning a firearm and is in lawful possession of the motor vehicle may concealed carry or openly carry a handgun. In addition, unless expressly prohibited by federal law, firearms may be transported and stored in a vehicle while on or utilizing any public or private parking area if:
[Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-1307(g) and § 39-17-1313(a)]
store in a vehicle in an employee parking lot?
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.
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.
[Tenn. Code Ann. § 50-1-312][Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1313(a)]
Self-Defense
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:
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.
Defense of Property
A person in lawful possession of real or personal property or personal property of a third person is justified in threatening or using force against another when and to the degree it is reasonably believed the force is immediately necessary to prevent or terminate the other’s trespass on the land or unlawful interference with the property. However, unless a person is justified in using deadly force as otherwise provided by law, a person is not justified in using deadly force to prevent or terminate the other’s trespass on real estate or unlawful interference with personal property.
“Dwelling” means a building or conveyance of any kind, including any attached porch, whether the building or conveyance is temporary or permanent, mobile or immobile, that has a roof over it, including a tent, and is designed for or capable of use by people.
“Residence” means a dwelling in which a person resides, either temporarily or permanently, or is visiting as an invited guest, or any dwelling, building or other appurtenance within the curtilage of the residence.
“Vehicle” means any motorized vehicle that is self-propelled and designed for use on public highways to transport people or property.
Defense of Third Person
A person is justified in threatening or using force against another to protect a third person if the person reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary to protect the third person from unlawful force.
Tennessee Gun Law Updates
DateDetails
2025-04-09
Added non-lethal weapons to Carry Basics section.
2023-01-27
Updated age for permitless carry in the Summary and Gun Laws at a Glance sections
2021-07-01
Per SB 765, updated all affected sections
2021-05-19
Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table
2021-04-15
Per SB 765, updated permitless carry info in Summary and At A Glance sections
2021-04-15
Per SB 765, updated duty to inform info in At A Glance section
2021-04-15
Per SB 765, updated location restrictions in the Location Restrictions section
2021-04-15
Per SB 765, updated preemption info in At A Glance section
2020-11-23
Added information on training exemptions in the Training Section
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