Tennessee Concealed Carry Gun Permit Laws [And How to Get Your CCW License Online]

Tennessee Concealed Carry Gun Permit Laws [And How to Get Your CCW License Online]

Tennessee Concealed Carry Gun Permit Laws

Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.

Summary of Tennessee Gun Laws

Tennessee Concealed Weapons Permits

Tennessee operates as a shall-issue state for concealed weapons permits, issued by the Department of Safety & Homeland Security at the state level.

Handgun Purchase Regulations

No permit, background check, or firearms registration is required when purchasing a handgun from a private individual in Tennessee.

👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!

Permitless Carry Law

As of July 1, 2021, Tennessee enacted a law allowing permitless open and concealed carry for individuals aged 18 and older, who can lawfully possess a handgun, provided they are in a place they have the right to be and meet additional specified criteria. Some areas remain off-limits, including government buildings and schools.

Legal Challenge and Changes

In April 2021, the Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) filed a lawsuit against Tennessee’s restrictions on 18- to 20-year-olds carrying concealed firearms in public. On January 23, 2023, the state and FPC reached an agreement in federal court stating these restrictions were unconstitutional and immediately ceased enforcement.

Tennessee Concealed Handgun Carry Permits

Since January 1, 2020, Tennessee offers two levels of concealed handgun carry permits:

• Concealed Handgun Carry Permit (CHCP) : Requires a 90-minute online course.
• Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit (EHCP) : Requires completion of an 8-hour live training course, allowing permittees to carry openly or concealed in more locations.

Non-residents who work regularly in Tennessee and hold a valid concealed carry permit in their home state may apply for a CHCP after six months of employment.

Reciprocity

Tennessee recognizes concealed carry permits from all other states.

Self-Defense Laws

Tennessee adheres to Castle Doctrine principles and has a “stand your ground” law:

• Individuals lawfully present and not engaged in illegal activity have no duty to retreat before using or threatening force likely to cause serious bodily injury or death.
• Deadly force used within a residence, business, dwelling, or vehicle is presumed justified against an intruder unlawfully and forcibly entering.

Definitions

• Dwelling : Includes any structure with a roof, designed for human use.
• Residence : A dwelling where a person resides temporarily or permanently.
• Vehicle : Self-propelled motor vehicles for public highway use.

[Tenn. Code. Ann. §§ 39–11–611, 39–11–612, 39–11–614]

👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!

Tennessee Gun Laws at a Glance

Carry Basics FAQs

Open Carry Permitted?

• Is open carry permitted in Tennessee? Yes. As of July 1, 2021, permitless open carry is legal for anyone meeting the 7 criteria in the permitless carry section above.

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 at least 18 years of age.

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.

Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?

• Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Tennessee? Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Tennessee.

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? 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.

Permitless Carry?

Does Tennessee allow permitless carry? Yes. As of July 1, 2021, permitless open and concealed carry is legal for anyone meeting specific criteria outlined in Tennessee Code Annotated, § 39–17–1307(a)(1), 39–17–1307(g), and (h).

👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!

Carry Locations FAQs

CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS?

Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Tennessee?

• Yes, with an enhanced HCP or a concealed carry permit from a state that Tennessee honors.
• [Tenn. Code. Ann. § 39–17–1311(H)]

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 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.
• [Tenn. Code. Ann. § 39–17–1311(H)]

CARRY IN BARS/RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL?

Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Tennessee?

• Yes, without a permit, unless posted and provided you don’t consume any alcohol.
• [Tenn. Code. Ann. § 39–17–1321]

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?

• 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)]

CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL?

Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Tennessee?

• Private businesses may restrict or deny concealed carry on their premises. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about its concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
• [Tenn. Code. Ann. § 39–17–1359(b)]

CARRY IN VEHICLE?

Can you carry a concealed handgun 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 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:
• The motor vehicle is parked in a location where the motor vehicle is permitted to be; and
• The firearm or ammunition being transported or stored in the motor vehicle:
• Is kept from ordinary observation if the person is in the motor vehicle; or
• Is kept from ordinary observation and locked within the trunk, glove box or interior of the person’s motor vehicle or a container securely affixed to the motor vehicle if the person is not in the motor vehicle.
• [Tennessee Code Annotated § 39–17–1307(g) and § 39–17–1313(a)]

Key State Laws

NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING?

• Does Tennessee issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
• 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.

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.

Duty to Inform Officer You’re Carrying?

• Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Tennessee?
• 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.

DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO Carry Permit?

• Is my Tennessee driver’s license linked to my Tennessee 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.

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 state has preemption of firearms laws in Tennessee, except municipalities may regulate:
• The carrying of firearms by local government employees or independent contractors when acting in the course and scope of their employment or contract; and
• The discharge of firearms within the limits of the city, county, town municipality or metropolitan government.
• 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.

Red Flag Law?

• Does Tennessee have a red flag law?
• No. Tennessee does not have a red flag law.

Brandishing?

• Does Tennessee state law define 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.

Carry While Using Alcohol or Controlled Substances?

• Does Tennessee have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances?
• Not while consuming or under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance or controlled substance analogue.

“No Weapons Allowed” Signs Enforced?

• Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Tennessee?
• 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.

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. 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.

TENNESSEE PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK?

Does my current Tennessee concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? No.

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.

POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT?

Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home 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.

Tennessee Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States

Alabama (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Alaska (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

California (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Colorado (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Connecticut (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Delaware (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

District of Columbia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Florida (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Georgia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Hawaii (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Illinois (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Iowa (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Kansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Maine (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Maryland (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Massachusetts (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Michigan (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Minnesota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Missouri (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nevada (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

New Jersey (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

New Mexico (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

New York (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

New York City (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

North Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Ohio (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Oregon (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Pennsylvania (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Puerto Rico (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Rhode Island (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Texas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Utah (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Virginia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Washington (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Wisconsin (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Tennessee allows permitless open and concealed carry for anyone that at least 21 years old or older (or is at least 18 years of age and has been honorably discharged from military service or is active duty and has completed basic training) that may lawfully possess a handgun, is in a place where the person has a right to be and meets three additional criteria.

Other States’ Reciprocity With Tennessee

Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Delaware

Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Louisiana

Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nevada

New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

North Carolina

North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

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

Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)

Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

New Mexico (at least 21 years old)

Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Pennsylvania (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Virginia (at least 21 years old)

West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Wisconsin (at least 21 years old)

Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Permitless Carry States

Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)

Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)

Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old

*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old

Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.

Tennessee Concealed Carry License Information

Name/Address Changes:

By law, if you move within Tennessee, you must notify the state of your new address within 60 days. You can update your address with the Department of Safety either online or by sending a written notification to:

Handgun Permit Office
P.O. Box 23710
Nashville, TN 37202

To receive a permit with your new address or if your handgun carry permit is lost or misplaced, you’ll need to apply for a duplicate. Obtain a duplicate application from any Driver Services Center or by calling (615) 251–8590. Mail the completed application along with a $5.00 fee (payable by check or money order) to:

Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security
Handgun Permit Office
P.O. Box 23710
Nashville, TN 37202

Lost/Stolen Permits:

If your Handgun Carry Permit (HCP) is lost or stolen, you can apply for a duplicate by completing an online application or visiting a Driver Services Center for a hard copy. Complete and sign the application, and send it along with a $5.00 fee to:

Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security
Handgun Permit Office
P.O. Box 23710
Nashville, TN 37202

Enhanced Application:

Starting January 1, 2020, the existing permit has been upgraded to the Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit (HCP). Applicants for the enhanced permit must complete an 8-hour live training course from certified instructors, undergo a criminal background check, and pay a $100 permit fee. This permit allows holders to carry a gun openly or concealed in more locations.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits:

Non-resident concealed carry permits are available only to active duty military personnel stationed in Tennessee. The application process for non-residents is the same as for residents.

Fees:

• Lifetime Enhanced HCP: $300 or $200 (if upgrading from an 8-year permit)
• Enhanced HCP: $100 for initial permit, $50 for renewal, $65 for active duty or honorably discharged military
• Concealed HCP: $65 for initial 8-year permit

Requirements:

An applicant for a Handgun Carry Permit must:

• Be at least 21 years old (or 18 for active duty, retired, or honorably discharged military)
• Have completed an approved firearms safety course within the last 12 months for enhanced permits (or a 90-minute online course or equivalent for concealed permits)
• Be a resident of Tennessee
• Be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residency
• Meet various eligibility criteria, including no felony convictions, no domestic violence history, and compliance with federal law requirements.

Consult with an attorney for legal advice on eligibility.

Valid For:

Handgun Carry Permits are valid for 8 years.

Processing Time:

The processing time for Handgun Carry Permit applications is approximately 90 days.

Residency Changes:

If you are moving to Tennessee and wish to apply for a resident permit, you can do so once you can provide evidence of residency, employment in Tennessee for at least six months, or active duty military stationing in the state.

If you move out of Tennessee after holding a resident permit, the Tennessee permit becomes invalid upon establishing residency in another state.

Tennessee Handgun Carry Permit Application Process

Step 1:

Complete the online application for a Tennessee handgun carry permit.

Step 2:

If required, complete a training course. View acceptable exemptions from the handgun safety course

Step 3:

Visit a Driver Services Center. You can schedule an appointment for your visit here. You will need:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
• Photo ID (TN driver license, state ID card, proof of full SSN)
• If no TN driver license, provide two proofs of Tennessee residency (current within last 4 months)
• Payment of required fee

When processed at the Driver Service Center, you will be photographed and given instructions for fingerprinting.

Step 4:

You will receive notification by mail regarding the status of your application.

Two-tiered Carry Permit System:

Effective January 1, 2020, Tennessee implemented a two-tiered carry permit system:

• Concealed Handgun Carry Permit (HCP): Allows concealed carry but is less expensive and requires no live-firearm training. Not valid in certain public places.
• Apply online or in person at a Driver Services Center
• Provide proof of identity, full SSN, and permanent residency
• If no TN driver license, submit two proofs of Tennessee residency (current within last 4 months)
• Photograph taken
• Proof of handgun competence required (e.g., 90-minute online course)
• Payment of fee

Upon completion, instructions for fingerprinting will be provided.

Concealed handgun carry permit holders are restricted from carrying in locations covered by Tenn. Code Ann. § 39–17–1311, including public parks, natural areas, historic parks, and similar public places.

Firearms Training Requirements in Tennessee

Handgun Safety Courses in Tennessee

All handgun safety courses in Tennessee must be certified by the Tennessee Department of Safety. Courses must have been completed within the last 12 months and include instruction on alcohol and drug effects, their impact on reflexes and judgment, and Tennessee laws prohibiting handgun possession while under the influence.

Changes Effective January 1, 2020

Senate Bill 705 introduced new options for obtaining a concealed Handgun Carry Permit (HCP):

• Completion of a hunter education or safety course
• Holding an unrevoked Tennessee HCP
• Equivalent experience through documented participation in organized shooting competitions
• Completion of other approved firearms training courses

Exemptions and Requirements

For an Enhanced HCP, applicants must complete an 8-hour live training course from certified instructors. Exemptions apply to:

• Military personnel with small arms qualification or combat pistol training listed on their Honorable Discharge DD214 form
• Law enforcement and security guards

Military personnel exempt from the firing range portion must still complete the classroom component of the Handgun Safety Class.

Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit Renewal Process

Handgun Permit Renewal Process

Step 1: Renewal Eligibility Handgun permits can be renewed up to 6 months before the expiry date. They can also be renewed up to one cycle past the expiry date. If more than 8 years have elapsed since the expiry date, a new application will be required.

Step 2: Application Process Complete the online application or visit a Driver Services Center. Some County Clerk’s offices may also offer this service. You will need to provide:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or residency
• Photo ID such as a driver’s license or state ID card Pay the applicable fee.

Step 3: Approval Notification You will receive notification by mail once your renewal application has been approved.

Tennessee Location Restrictions

Where Can’t I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Tennessee?

Places off-limits even with a permit/license

Concealed HCP Holders and Under Permitless Carry:

• Any public school campus, grounds, recreation area, or athletic field except in parking lots (and for school employees who satisfy specific conditions).
• Any private school building, campus, grounds, recreation area, or athletic field, unless there is a policy allowing carry.
• Any public or private school bus.
• Any portion of a religious institution while it is being used for school purposes.
• Any public institutions of higher education, except for employees who have provided written notification to the appropriate law enforcement agency (except in parking areas).

Tenn. Code Ann. § 39–17–1309

• Any penal institutions where prisoners are quartered [Tenn. Code Ann. § 39–16–201(b)(1)].
• Day use areas, campgrounds, and other developed recreational lands on Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) property [TVA Rules for Use of TVA Public Lands].
• Any meeting on a property owned by an individual, business, or government, if posted [Tenn. Code Ann. § 39–17–1359(a)(1)].
• Any place while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• While consuming alcohol in an establishment open to the public where alcohol is served for consumption on the premises [Tenn. Code Ann. § 39–17–1321(b)(1)].
• Secured areas of airports as well as additional areas that may be posted [Tenn. Code Ann. § 39–17–1359(a)(1)].
• Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.

See Can Carry Section for locations where E-CHCL holders may carry.

Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Tennessee?

Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Yes, as long as you don’t consume any alcohol and provided you are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license? Yes.
• Carry in 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 WMAs? Yes, with an enhanced HCP or a concealed carry permit from a state that Tennessee honors. [Tenn. Code Ann. § 39–17–1311]
• Carry in places of worship? There is no state statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.

Enhanced HCP holders are allowed to carry in the locations covered by Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39–17–1309(e)(8), 39–17–1311(b)(1)(H), and (b)(1)(I) which includes public parks, public natural areas, historic parks, nature trails or recreational areas, campgrounds, national parks, forests, greenways, waterways (with some exceptions, including Tennessee Valley Authority and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers properties), and other similar public places that are owned or operated by the state, a county, a municipality, or instrumentality of the state, a county, or municipality.​ There may be occasions when carry is not allowed in these locations, including when the area is being used by a school or if access to the area is restricted for an event, such as a state fair.

A “greenway” is defined as an open-space area following a natural or manmade linear feature designed to be used for recreation, transportation, conservation, and to link services and facilities. A greenway is a paved, gravel-covered, wood chip covered, or wood-covered path that connects one greenway entrance with another greenway entrance. In the event a greenway traverses a park that is owned or operated by a county, municipality, or instrumentality thereof, the greenway shall be considered a portion of that park unless designated otherwise by the local legislative body.

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 either as a concealed handgun carry permit holder or as an enhanced handgun carry permit holder and must display the permit on demand of a law enforcement officer under such circumstances. [Tennessee Code Annotated § 39–17–1309, 39–17–1310 and 39–17–1311(b)(1)(H) and (b)(1)(I)]

FAQ: Tennessee Concealed Carry Questions

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]

Wear a COVID Mask & Carry?

I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Tennessee, but can I wear a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying concealed?

• There is no known statute in Tennessee making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed.
• A state statute prohibits wearing a mask as a tool for intimidating anyone from exercising their civil rights, but does not mention concealed carry.

[Tenn. Code Ann. 39–17–309]

Carry While Bow Hunting?

Can you concealed carry while bow hunting 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.

[TN Wildlife Resource Agency FAQs]

Hunter Harassment Law?

Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Tennessee?

• Yes. Interference with lawful taking of wildlife, such as hunting, fishing, or trapping, is prohibited.

[Tenn. Code Ann. § 70–4–302]

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 year-round on TWRA refuges, public hunting areas, wildlife management areas, and private land.
• Specific regulations may apply to federally managed properties.

[TCA 39–17–1351]

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