Tennessee Gun Laws
Tennessee Gun Laws Tennessee has very permissive gun laws. The state’s constitution maintains the right to bear arms, and Tennesse has enacted legislation that makes lawful firearms ownership a straightforward process. Tennessee does not require any kind of license or permit to obtain a firearm, and as a “shall issue” state, it is relatively easy to be issued a concealed carry permit.
Tennessee Gun Laws at a Glance
Concealed Carry Premit Required | Yes |
Open Carry Premitted | Yes |
Waiting period before purchasing | No |
Lost and Stolen Firearm Reporting | No |
Firearms License Required for Purchasing | No |
Universal Background Check | No |
Firearm Registration | No |
Large Capacity Magazine Ban | No |
Firearm License Requirements
No type of license is required to obtain a firearm in Tennessee.
Background Checks
Tennesse does not require background checks on firearms transfers through unlicensed sellers. Per federal regulations, any transferee buying from a licensed seller will be subject to a background check.
Gun Shows
Tennessee does not regulate gun shows.
Hardware and Ammunition Restrictions
Hardware | Restrictions |
---|---|
Assault Weapons | Not restricted |
50 Caliber Rifles | Not restricted |
Machine Guns | Prohibited. |
Large Capacity Magazines | Not restricted |
Ammunition | Explosive ammunition is prohibited. |
Prohibited Persons
Tennesse prohibits the ownership or possession of a firearm by anyone:
- Convicted of a felony involving the use or attempted use of force, violence, or a deadly weapon
- Convicted of a felony drug offense
- Convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence (while remaining subject to the disabilities of such a conviction)
- Possessing a firearm while subject to an order of protection
- Under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance (this applies to handguns only)
- Prohibited from possessing a firearm under any federal or state law
Prohibited Places
Location | Restrictions | Exceptions |
---|---|---|
Schools | Tennessee generally prohibits firearms on any public or private school grounds. This includes colleges and universities. | This does not apply to firearms being used for school purposes or instruction. |
Vehicles | Tennesse permits any person, including those without concealed carry licenses, to carry a handgun in a vehicle that they own. | None. |
Concealed Carry Laws
Notify Officer | No |
“No Gun” Signs | Enforced |
In-Vehicle Carry | Permitted |
Restaurant Carry | Permitted |
State Park Carry | Yes |
Obtaining a Concealed Carry License
Tennessee is a “shall issue” state. Any applicant who meets certain qualifications must be issued a concealed carry permit.
Requirements for a Concealed Carry License |
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Concealed Carry Firearms Training
TThe Tennessee Department of Safety (TDS) requires that applicants submit proof of the completion of a TDS-approved handgun safety course prior to obtaining a handgun license.
This safety course must include the effects of alcohol and drugs on a person’s judgment and ability to handle a firearm. Exemptions are generally granted for military personnel, law enforcement, and security guards.
Concealed Carry Location Restrictions
Even with a concealed carry permit, you may not carry a concealed firearm in the following locations:
- Any public school campus, grounds, recreation area or athletic field
- Any private school building, campus, grounds, recreation area or athletic field
- Any public or private school bus
- Any religious institution if it is being used for school purposes
- Municipalities can ban carry in parks if there is a school event taking place in the park; and
- Any public institutions of higher education, except for employees who have provided written notification to the appropriate law enforcement agency (except in parking areas)
- Any room in which judicial proceedings are in progress
- Any penal institutions
- Day use areas, campgrounds, and other developed recreational lands on Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) property
- Any meeting on a property owned by an individual, business or government, if posted
- Any place while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Secured areas of airports and wherever else posted
- Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation
Disclaimer: The information provided here is not to be construed as legal advice or acted upon as if it is legal advice: it is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date content, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currency of the information. Gun laws can change frequently, especially at the state and local levels. Application of gun laws can be unique to an individual’s situation. We recommend that each individual consult with a competent and qualified legal professional before purchasing, transporting, or using any firearm or firearm-related product.