Tennessee Concealed Carry Laws & Information

We try to stay as up to date as possible, but always check with local law enforcement to be sure about which states honor your states permit.

The following states have permitless carry. This means that if you can legally possess a firearm in that state you can carry it concealed without a permit/license. You still have to abide by all conceaeled carry laws in that state. Please note that the last three states only allow residents to carry without a permit/license. Alaska, Arizona, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, Vermont, West Virginia, Idaho (Residents Only), North Dakota (Residents Only), Wyoming (Residents Only).

Information compiled from various state government and private sites from around the web.

Reciprocity: How This State Honors Other States Permits & Licenses

Tennessee honors all other states Permit/Licenses and also Honors Non-Resident Permits/Licenses from the States they Honor.

39-17-1351. Handgun Carry Permits

(r) (1) A facially valid handgun permit, firearms permit, weapons permit or license issued by another state shall be valid in this state according to its terms and shall be treated as if it is a handgun permit issued by this state; provided, however, this subsection (r) shall not be construed to authorize the holder of any out-of-state permit or license to carry, in this state, any firearm or weapon other than a handgun.

(2) For a person to lawfully carry a handgun in this state based upon a permit or license issued in another state, the person must be in possession of the permit or license at all times the person carries a handgun in this state.

(3)

(A) The commissioner of safety shall enter into written reciprocity agreements with other states that require the execution of the agreements. The commissioner of safety shall prepare and publicly publish a current list of states honoring permits issued by the state of Tennessee and shall make the list available to anyone upon request. The commissioner of safety shall also prepare and publicly publish a current list of states who, after inquiry by the commissioner, refuse to enter into a reciprocity agreement with this state or honor handgun carry permits issued by this state. To the extent that any state may impose conditions in the reciprocity agreements, the commissioner of safety shall publish those conditions as part of the list. If another state imposes conditions on Tennessee permit holders in a reciprocity agreement, the conditions shall also become a part of the agreement and apply to the other state's permit holders when they carry a handgun in this state.

(B) 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 (6) 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.

How to Apply for a Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit

Tennessee now offers online applications for New Applicants.

To access Handgun Permits online “Click here".

Q: How Do I Obtain a Handgun Carry Permit?

To obtain a handgun carry permit in Tennessee, you must first successfully complete a Handgun Safety Course offered by a handgun safety school that is certified by the Department of Safety. Tennessee will now accept two forms used by the Military which capture combat pistol training (CG-3029, DD-2586, DA-88-R and AF-522). These forms can now be used to verify military handgun training.

You should then make application at any full service Driver Service Center. You will need to bring with you the original copy of your safety course completion certificate, Proof of US Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residency, photo identification such as your Driver License, and non-refundable permit fee. This fee may be paid in cash, money order or with a certified check. If there are no problems with the application and you meet all eligibility requirements, you should receive your permit within 90 days of the date you submit your application. (Fee Chart)

When your application is processed at the Driver Service Center, you will be given instructions on being fingerprinted.

All handgun permit applicants seeking a new permit must provide Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residency.

Even though a person has a permit and is authorized to possess or carry a firearm pursuant to T.C.A. 39-17-1315 or 39-17-1351, there are restrictions as to where firearms may be carried. Additional information pertaining to possession of and carrying a firearm are listed by Tennessee Annotated Code and Subject Matter. More information can be obtained online from the Tennessee Annotated Code Lookup.

For Processing

Applications are received and reviewed in the Handgun Carry Permit Office.
Proper documentation is forwarded to three (3) different agencies: (TBI, FBI, County Sheriff).
Upon a name search approval from TBI, the permit can be issued within ninety (90) days from date of application.
Upon issuance, the handgun carry permit will be mailed to the applicant.
Incomplete applications cannot be processed.
Fees Are Non-Refundable (Fee Chart)

39-17-1351 Handgun Carry Permits

(b) Except as provided in subsection (r), any resident of Tennessee who is a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident, as defined by § 55-50-102, may apply to the department of safety for a handgun carry permit. If the applicant is not prohibited from possessing a firearm in this state pursuant to § 39-17-1307(b), 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), or any other state or federal law, and the applicant otherwise meets all of the requirements of this section, the department shall issue a permit to the applicant; provided:

(1) The applicant is at least twenty-one (21) years or age; or

(2) The applicant is at least eighteen (18) years of age; and

(A) Is an honorably discharged or retired veteran of the United States armed forces or is a member of the United States armed forces on active duty status; and

(B)

(i) Includes with the application a certified copy of the applicant's certificate of release or discharge from active duty, department of defense form 214 (DD 214); or

(ii) Includes with the application a military identification card or such other document as the commissioner designates as sufficient proof that the applicant is an active duty member of the military.

For Lifetime License

39-17-1351 Handgun Carry Permits

(x) (1) Any resident of Tennessee who is a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident, as defined by § 55-50-102, who has reached twenty-one (21) years of age, may apply to the department of safety for a lifetime handgun carry permit. If the applicant is not prohibited from purchasing or possessing a firearm in this state pursuant to § 39-17-1316 or § 39-17-1307(b), 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), or any other state or federal law, and the applicant otherwise meets all of the requirements of this section, the department shall issue a permit to the applicant. The lifetime handgun carry permit shall entitle the permit holder to carry any handgun or handguns the permit holder legally owns or possesses and shall entitle the permit holder to any privilege granted to handgun carry permit holders. The requirements imposed on handgun carry permit holders by this section shall also apply to lifetime handgun carry permit holders.

Kindly check the Fee Chart for costs.

Protection Order Allows Concealed Carry

36-3-626 Authorization to Carry Handgun After Order of Protection Granted and While Application for Temporary Handgun Permit Pending

(a) A person who petitions the court and is granted an order of protection, ex parte or otherwise, pursuant to this part shall have the ability to carry any handgun or handguns that the person legally owns or possesses for sixty (60) days immediately following issuance of the order of protection. If the order of protection expires or is dissolved before sixty (60) days have passed, the person shall no longer be permitted to carry a handgun pursuant to this section.

(b) In order to carry a handgun as provided in subsection (a), the person shall have the order of protection in the person's immediate possession at all times when carrying a handgun and shall display the order of protection on demand of a law enforcement officer.

(1) Possessing or receiving a firearm by 18 U.S.C. § 922(g);
(2) Shipping or transporting a firearm by 18 U.S.C. § 922(n); or
(3) Purchasing a firearm by § 39-17-1316.

How to Obtain A Non-Resident Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit

Tennessee will issue Non-Resident Permit/Licenses to individuals who meet the qualifications as listed below.

39-17-1351. Handgun Carry Permits

(r) (C)

(i) If a person who is a resident of and handgun permit holder in another state is employed in this state on a regular basis and desires to carry a handgun in this state, the person shall have six (6) months from the last day of the sixth month of regular employment in this state to obtain a Tennessee handgun carry permit. 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.

(ii) This subdivision (r)(3)(C) shall not apply if the state of residence of the person employed in Tennessee has entered into a handgun permit reciprocity agreement with this state pursuant to this subsection (r).

(iii) As used in this subdivision (r)(3)(C), "employed in this state on a regular basis" means a person has been gainfully employed in this state for at least thirty (30) hours a week for six (6) consecutive months not counting any absence from employment caused by the employee's use of sick leave, annual leave, administrative leave or compensatory time.

Places You Can Not Carry Even With a Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit

Any room in which judicial proceedings are in progress.
*Any public or private school building or bus, on any public or private school campus, grounds, recreation area, athletic field or any other property owned, used or operated by any board of education, school, college or university board of trustees, regents or directors for the administration of any public or private educational institution.
It is not an offense for a nonstudent adult to possess a firearm, if such firearm is contained within a private vehicle operated by the adult and is not handled by such adult, or by any other person acting with the expresses or implied consent of such adult, while such vehicle is on school property.
An individual, corporation, business entity or government entity or agent thereof is authorized to prohibit possession of weapons by any person otherwise authorized by this subsection, at meetings conducted by, or on premises owned, operated, managed or under control of such individual, corporation, business entity or government entity. Notice of such prohibition shall be posted in prominent locations, including all entrances primarily used by persons entering the building, portion of the building or buildings where weapon possession is prohibited.
It is a criminal offense to possess or carry weapons, including firearms, on those portions of the property of a religious institution being used for school purposes.
The prohibition against carrying weapons applies only to those portions of the property of the religious institution being used for school purposes.
The prohibition against carrying a firearm on the property of a religious institution applies only while the property is being used or operated by the school.

*Check Parking Lot Storage Law Section for Storage on Public Post Secondary Education Institutes.

Attorney General Opinion on Carrying in/on Property of a Church School. See Complete Opinion here.

39-17-1311. Carrying Weapons on Public Parks, Playgrounds, Civic Centers and Other Public Recreational Buildings and Grounds.

(a) It is an offense for any person to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, with the intent to go armed, any weapon prohibited by § 39-17-1302(a), not used solely for instructional, display or sanctioned ceremonial purposes, in or on the grounds of any public park, playground, civic center or other building facility, area or property owned, used or operated by any municipal, county or state government, or instrumentality thereof, for recreational purposes.

(b) (1) Subsection (a) shall not apply to the following persons:

(A) Persons employed in the army, air force, navy, coast guard or marine service of the United States or any member of the Tennessee national guard when in discharge of their official duties and acting under orders requiring them to carry arms or weapons;

(E) Any pupils who are members of the reserve officers training corps or pupils enrolled in a course of instruction or members of a club or team, and who are required to carry arms or weapons in the discharge of their official class or team duties;

(G) A registered security guard/officer, who meets the requirements of title 62, chapter 35, while in the performance of the officer's duties;

(H) Persons possessing a handgun, who are authorized to carry the handgun pursuant to § 39-17-1351, while within or on a 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;

(I) Persons possessing a handgun, who are authorized to carry the handgun pursuant to § 39-17-1351, while within or on property designated by the federal government as a national park, forest, preserve, historic park, military park, trail or recreation area, to the extent permitted by federal law.

(g) For the purposes of this section, a "greenway" means an open-space area following a natural or man-made linear feature designed to be used for recreation, transportation, conservation, and to link services and facilities. A greenway is a paved, gravel-covered, woodchip 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. Except as provided in this part, the definition of a greenway in this section shall not be applicable to any other provision of law.

In Tennessee, if a school sponsored function or event is taking place in the park a person carrying under the new law can’t be in the “Immediate Area” of the event/function but the rest of the park etc would be okay. Use Caution as “Immediate Area” is not defined in the new law.

Take note, Cities/Counties are not allowed to post Parks. Their old No Gun Signs are still up in some parks. By law they didn’t have to remove them until they needed replaced as they have more than just No Firearms Allowed restrictions listed on them. Permit Holders can carry in those parks as stated in 39-17-3311 (H).

39-17-1307, Unlawful Carrying or Possession of a Weapon

(a)

(1) A person commits an offense who carries with the intent to go armed a firearm or a club.

(2)

(A) The first violation of subdivision (a)(1) is a Class C misdemeanor, and, in addition to possible imprisonment as provided by law, may be punished by a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500).

(B) A second or subsequent violation of subdivision (a)(1) is a Class B misdemeanor.

(e)

(1) It is an exception to the application of subsection (a) that a person is carrying or possessing a firearm, loaded firearm, or firearm ammunition in a motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, or motorized boat if the person:

(A) Is not prohibited from possessing or receiving a firearm by 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) or purchasing a firearm by § 39-17-1316; and
(B) Is in lawful possession of the motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, or motorized boat.

(2)

(A) As used in this subsection (e):

(i) "Motor vehicle" has the same meaning as defined in § 55-1-103; and
(ii) "Recreational vehicle" has the same meaning as defined in § 55-17-102.

(B) This subsection (e) shall not apply to a motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, or motorized boat that is:

(i) Owned or leased by a governmental or private entity that has adopted a written policy prohibiting firearms or ammunition not required for employment within the motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, or motorized boat; and
(ii) Provided by such entity to an employee for use during the course of employment.

39-16-201. Introduction or Possession of Weapons, Explosives, Intoxicants or Drugs into a Penal Institution Where Prisoners are Quartered

(b) It is unlawful for any person to:

(1) Knowingly and with unlawful intent take, send or otherwise cause to be taken into any penal institution where prisoners are quartered or under custodial supervision any weapons, ammunition, explosives, intoxicants, legend drugs, or any controlled substances found in chapter 17, part 4 of this title;

39-17-1314. Local Regulation of Firearms and Ammunition Preempted By State Regulation -- Actions Against Firearms or Ammunition Manufacturers, Trade Associations Or Dealers

(a) Except as otherwise provided by state law or as specifically provided in subsection

(b), the general assembly preempts the whole field of the regulation of firearms, ammunition, or components of firearms or ammunition, or combinations thereof including, but not limited to, the use, purchase, transfer, taxation, manufacture, ownership, possession, carrying, sale, acquisition, gift, devise, licensing, registration, storage, and transportation thereof, to the exclusion of all county, city, town, municipality, or metropolitan government law, ordinances, resolutions, enactments or regulation. No county, city, town, municipality, or metropolitan government nor any local agency, department, or official shall occupy any part of the field regulation of firearms, ammunition or components of firearms or ammunition, or combinations thereof.

Full time Employees as defined below can carry on Public Institutions of Higher Education

39-17-1309 Carrying Weapons on School Property

(e)(9)(A) Employees authorized to carry a handgun pursuant to § 39-17-1351 on property owned, operated, or controlled by the public institution of higher education at which the employee is employed;

(B)(i) Any authorized employee who elects to carry a handgun pursuant to this subdivision (e)(9) shall provide written notification to the law enforcement agency or agencies with jurisdiction over the property owned, operated, or controlled by the public institution of higher education that employs the employee;

(C) Unless carrying a handgun is a requirement of the employee's job description, the carrying of a handgun pursuant to this subdivision (e)(9) is a personal choice of the employee and not a requirement of the employer. Consequently, an employee who carries a handgun on property owned, operated, or controlled by the public institution of higher education at which the employee is employed is not:

(iv) Permitted to carry a handgun openly, or in any other manner in which the handgun is visible to ordinary observation; or

(v) Permitted to carry a handgun at the following times and at the following locations:

(a) Stadiums, gymnasiums, and auditoriums when school sponsored events are in progress;
(b) In meetings regarding disciplinary matters;
(c) In meetings regarding tenure issues;
(d) A hospital, or an office where medical or mental health services are the primary services provided; and
(e) Any location where a provision of state or federal law, except the posting provisions of§ 39-17- 1359, prohibits the carrying of a handgun on that property; (1 O)(A) Any employee of the University of Tennessee institute of agriculture or a college or department of agriculture at a campus in the University of Tennessee system when in the discharge of the employee's official duties and with prior authorization from the chancellor of the University of Tennessee institute of agriculture;

(E) As used in subdivisions (e)(9)-(11):

(i) "Employee" includes all faculty, staff, and other persons who are employed on a full-time basis by a public institution of higher education; and
(ii) "Employee" does not include a person who is enrolled as a student at a public institution of higher education, regardless of whether the person is also an employee;

It is recommended that, you talk to the Police Agency over the Public Institution you work full time at. They will have a procedure set up on how to officially notify them and most likely have information for your particular school. You are only authorized to carry your firearm on the property of the Institution that employees you full time.

49-50-803 & 49-7-161. States that Private K-12 and Private Colleges/Universities will have a written firearms policy. That it must be disseminated so that everyone knows the rules. They can ban firearms totally from their campus buildings and property and or only let certain people carry or let anyone carry. You would have to look at the schools policy to know each schools rules or regulations.

Land Between The Lakes (USDA Forest Service (Valid Permit/License Carry Allowed))

United States Department of Agriculture
United States Forest Service
Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area
ORDER NO. 60-01-13 and 60-09-13

Pursuant to the provisions of 16 U.S.C. Section 551, and Title 36 C.F.R. Section 261.50(a) and (b), the following acts or omissions are prohibited on lands and waters within the legislative jurisdiction of the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. The area consists of over 170,000 acres of National Forest land located in Trigg and Lyon County in Kentucky and Stewart County in Tennessee, and is depicted on the attached map.

1. Possession of firearms is prohibited except during legal firearms hunting seasons by licensed hunters and going to and from the LBL-NRA firearms range. Firearms must be cased and unloaded during transport. 36 CFR 261.53(e)

2. Firearms possessed during legal hunting seasons by licensed hunters must be cased and unloaded (chamber and magazine) while being transported in a motorized vehicle. 36 CFR 261.53(e)

The above prohibited acts are set forth in Title 36 C.F.R, Section 261.
Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. 261.50(e) the following persons are exempt from the provisions of the above order.

1. Persons with a permit specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act.
2. Any Federal, State, or local officer in the performance of an official duty.

___________________________________

An email was received last April 2010 by Kathryn Harper, a Manager in Communication Services from USDA Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area. http://www.landbetweenthelakes.us/

Below is the information LE&I provides to the public in regards to possessing firearms at LBL NRA:

1. Possession of firearms is prohibited except during legal firearms hunting seasons by licensed hunters and going to and from the LBL NRA firearms range. Firearms must be cased and unloaded during transport.

2. Firearms possessed during legal hunting seasons by licensed hunters must be cased and unloaded (chamber + magazine) while being transported in a motorized vehicle.

3. LBL LE&I also states that the concealed firearms carry permit does not apply to LBL NRA at this time, although the LE officers at LBL will honor the concealed carry permit if there are no other aggravating circumstances. Examples of aggravating circumstances are, but not limited to, violation of the concealed carry permit itself, shooting from a roadway, or shooting outside of the LBL firearms range”.

Firearms on Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA Property)

4. Firearms and Weapons - TVA campgrounds may receive use by hunters during hunting season. While firearms and weapons are generally prohibited, possession of firearms and other weapons associated with in-season hunting excursions are permissible if they are unloaded and properly cased. Possession of firearms at TVA public ramps, associated roads, and parking areas are allowed if the possession complies with the law of the state where the boat ramp is located and is not otherwise prohibited by law.

For Day Use Areas, Campgrounds, and other developed recreational TVA lands are still off limits. TVA lands where Hunting is presently allowed, Undeveloped Shorelines, Boat Ramps, Boat Ramp Parking Areas and Associated Roads for those areas is where carry will be allowed.

“No Gun Signs” Have the Force of Law

39-17-1359. Prohibition at Certain Meetings - Posting Notice

(a)

(1) Except as provided in § 39-17-1313, 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.

(2) The prohibition in subdivision (a)(1) shall apply to any person who is authorized to carry a firearm by authority of § 39-17-1351

(b)

(1) Notice of the prohibition permitted by subsection (a) shall be accomplished by displaying the notice described in subdivision (b)(3) 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. The notice shall be plainly visible to the average person entering the building, property, or portion of the building or property, posted.

(2) The notice required by this section shall be in English, but a duplicate notice may also be posted in any language used by patrons, customers, or persons who frequent the place where weapon possession is prohibited.

(3)

(A) A sign shall be used as the method of posting. The sign shall include the phrase “NO FIREARMS ALLOWED”, and the phrase shall measure at least one inch (1″) high and eight inches (8″) wide. The sign shall also include the phrase “As authorized by T.C.A. § 39-17-1359”.

(B) The sign shall include a pictorial representation of the phrase “NO FIREARMS ALLOWED” that shall include a red circle with a red diagonal line through the circle and a black image of a firearm inside the red circle under the diagonal line. The entire pictorial representation shall be at least four inches (4″) high and four inches (4″) wide. The diagonal line shall be at a forty-five degree (45°) angle from the upper left to the lower right side of the circle.

(C) A building, property or a portion of a building or property, shall be considered properly posted in accordance with this section if one (1) or both of the following is displayed 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:

(4) An individual, corporation, business entity, or government entity that, as of January 1, 2015, used signs to provide notice of the prohibition permitted by subsection (a) shall have until January 1, 2018, to replace existing signs with signs that meet the requirements of subdivision (b)(3).

(c)

(1) It is an offense to possess a weapon in a building or on property that is properly posted in accordance with this section.

(2) Possession of a weapon on posted property in violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by fine only of five hundred dollars ($500).

(d) Nothing in this section shall be construed to alter, reduce or eliminate any civil or criminal liability that a property owner or manager may have for injuries arising on their property.

(e) The provisions of this section shall not apply to title 70 regarding wildlife laws, rules and regulations.

(f) 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 shall be governed by § 39-17-1311.

(g) Nothing in this section shall authorize an entity of local or state government to enact or enforce a prohibition or restriction on the possession of a firearm on property owned or administered by the entity unless the entity provides the following at each public entrance to the property:

(1) Metal detection devices;
(2) At least one (1) law enforcement or private security officer who has been adequately trained to conduct inspections of persons entering the property by use of metal detection devices; and
(3) That each person who enters the building through the public entrance when the building is open to the public and any bag, package, and other container carried by the person is inspected by a law enforcement or private security officer described in subdivision (g)(2)

39-17-1325 Immunity for Failure to Adopt Policy That Prohibits Weapons on Premises

(a) A person, business, or other entity that owns, controls, or manages property and has the authority to prohibit weapons on that property by posting, pursuant to§ 39-17-1359, shall be immune from civil liability with respect to any claim based on such person's, business's, or other entity's failure to adopt a policy that prohibits weapons on the property by posting pursuant to§ 39-17-1359.

(b) Immunity under this subsection (a) does not apply to a person, business, or other entity whose conduct or failure to act is the result of gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct.

Laws Regarding Parking Lot Storage

49-7-163. Possession and storage of firearms or firearms ammunition in accordance with § 39-17-1313- Prohibition against disciplinary action.

No public postsecondary institution shall take any adverse or disciplinary action against an employee or student of the postsecondary institution solely for such person's transportation and storage of a firearm or firearm ammunition in compliance with § 39-17-1313 while on or using a parking area located on property owned, used, or operated by the postsecondary institution. History: Acts 2016, ch. 806, § 1.

39-17-1313. Transporting and storing a firearm or firearm ammunition in permit holder's motor vehicle

(a) Notwithstanding any provision of law or any ordinance or resolution adopted by the governing body of a city, county or metropolitan government, including any ordinance or resolution enacted before April 8, 1986, that prohibits or regulates the possession, transportation or storage of a firearm or firearm ammunition by a handgun carry permit holder, the holder of a valid handgun carry permit recognized in Tennessee may, unless expressly prohibited by federal law, transport and store a firearm or firearm ammunition in the permit holder's motor vehicle, as defined in § 55-1-103, while on or utilizing any public or private parking area if:

(1) The permit holder’s motor vehicle is parked in a location where it is permitted to be; and

(2) The firearm or ammunition being transported or stored in the motor vehicle:

(A) Is kept from ordinary observation if the permit holder is in the motor vehicle; or

(B) 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 such motor vehicle if the permit holder is not in the motor vehicle.

( b ) No business entity, public or private employer, or the owner, manager, or legal possessor of the property shall be held liable in any civil action for damages, injuries or death resulting from or arising out of another's actions involving a firearm or ammunition transported or stored by the holder of a valid handgun carry permit in the permit holder's motor vehicle unless the business entity, public or private employer, or the owner, manager, or legal possessor of the property commits an offense involving the use of the stored firearm or ammunition or intentionally solicits or procures the conduct resulting in the damage, injury or death. Nor shall a business entity, public or private employer, or the owner, manager, or legal possessor of the property be responsible for the theft of a firearm or ammunition stored by the holder of a valid handgun carry permit in the permit holder's motor vehicle.

(1) "Motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle as defined in § 55-1-103, which is in the lawful possession of the permit holder, but does not include any motor vehicle which is owned or leased by a governmental or business entity and that is provided by such entity to an employee for use during the course of employment if the entity has adopted a written policy prohibiting firearms or ammunition not required for employment within the entity's motor vehicles; and

(2) (A) "Parking area" means any property provided by a business entity, public or private employer, or the owner, manager, or legal possessor of the property for the purpose of permitting its invitees, customers, clients or employees to park privately owned motor vehicles; and

(B) "Parking area" does not include the grounds or property of an owner-occupied, single-family detached residence, or a tenant-occupied single-family detached residence.

(d) A handgun carry permit holder transporting, storing or both transporting and storing a firearm or firearm ammunition in accordance with this section does not violate this section if the firearm or firearm ammunition is observed by another person or security device during the ordinary course of the handgun carry permit holder securing the firearm or firearm ammunition from observation in or on a motor vehicle.

50-1-312. Adverse Employment Action for Transporting or Storing Firearm or Ammunition In Employer Parking Area Prohibited - Cause of Action

(a) For the purposes of this section:

(1) "Employee" means a natural person who performs services for an employer for valuable consideration and who possesses a valid handgun carry permit recognized in this state; and

(2) "Employer" means a person, association, or legal or commercial entity receiving services from an employee and, in return, giving compensation of any kind to the employee.

(b)

(1)

(A) No employer shall discharge or take any adverse employment action against an employee solely for transporting or storing a firearm or firearm ammunition in an employer parking area in a manner consistent with§ 39-17-1313(a).

(B) An employee discharged, or subject to an adverse employment action, in violation of subdivision
(b)(1)(A) shall have a cause of action against the employer to enjoin future acts in violation of this section and to recover economic damages plus reasonable attorney fees and costs.

(C) Any action brought under this section shall be filed in the chancery or circuit court having jurisdiction in the county where the alleged violation of subdivision (b)(1)(A) occurred.

(2) In any action brought pursuant to this section, the employee shall have the burden of establishing a prima facie case of discharge, or adverse employment action, based solely on the employee's transporting or storing a firearm or firearm ammunition in the employer's parking area in a manner consistent with § 39-17-1313(a). If the employee satisfies this burden, the burden shall then be on the employer to produce evidence that one (1) or more legitimate reasons existed for the employee's discharge or adverse employment action. The burden on the employer is one of production and not persuasion. If the employer produces such evidence, the presumption of discharge, or adverse employment action, raised by the employee's prima facie case is rebutted, and the burden shifts to the employee to demonstrate that the reason given by the employer was not the true reason for the employee's discharge, or adverse employment action, and that the stated reason was a pretext for discharge or adverse employment action. The allocations of burdens of proof set out in this subdivision (b)(2) shall apply at all stages of the proceedings, including motions for summary judgment. The employee at all times retains the burden of persuading the trier of fact that the employee has been the victim of discharge, or adverse employment action, based solely on the employee's adherence with § 39-17-1313(a).

(3) The employee has one (1) year from the date of termination of employment, or the date of adverse employment action, to file an action pursuant to this section.

(c) The presence of a firearm or ammunition within an employer's parking area in accordance with § 39-17-1313 does not by itself constitute a failure by the employer to provide a safe workplace.

(d) Except as otherwise provided in§ 39-17-1313 for parking areas, nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting an employer from prohibiting firearms or firearm ammunition on the premises of the employer.

Must Inform Officer Immediately on Contact By Law?

The answer is "NO".

39-17-1351 Handgun Carry Permits

(n) (1) Except as provided in subdivision (n)(2), a permit issued pursuant to this section shall be good for eight (8) years and shall entitle the permit holder to carry any handgun or handguns that the permit holder legally owns or possesses. The permit holder shall have the permit in the holder's immediate possession at all times when carrying a handgun and shall display the permit on demand of a law enforcement officer.

Carry In State Parks//WMA/Road Side Rest Areas & St. /Nat. Forests

Carry is Allowed in these Areas:

State Parks: YES; State Park Rules Buildings will be posted if No Gun Zones.
State/National Forests: YES; 39-17-1311 (H) Buildings will be posted if No Gun Zones.
State WMA’s & Public Hunting Areas: YES; 39-17-1311 (H) Buildings will be posted if No Gun Zones.
Road Side Rest Areas: YES; Buildings will be posted if No Gun Zones.

Car/RV Carry Without a Tennessee Concealed Carry Permit

Take note, if you can legally own a firearm you can carry it openly or concealed in a privately owned vehicle RV or Boat without any type of permit/license to carry. The Firearm can be anywhere in the vehicle but it can’t be on your person.

39-17-1307. Unlawful Carrying or Possession of a Weapon

(a)

(1) A person commits an offense who carries with the intent to go armed a firearm or a club.

(2)

(B) A second or subsequent violation of subdivision (a)(1) is a Class B misdemeanor.

(e)

(2)

(A) As used in this subsection (e):

(i) "Motor vehicle" has the same meaning as defined in § 55-1-103; and
(ii) "Recreational vehicle" has the same meaning as defined in § 55-17-102.

(B) This subsection (e) shall not apply to a motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, or motorized boat that is:

39-17-1308. Defenses to Unlawful Possession or Carrying of a Weapon

(a) It is a defense to the application of § 39-17-1307 if the possession or carrying was:

(1) Of an unloaded rifle, shotgun or handgun not concealed on or about the person and the ammunition for the weapon was not in the immediate vicinity of the person or weapon.

Open Carry (Without a Valid Permit/License)

Open Carry is only legal for those with a valid permit/license to carry a concealed firearm. For Carry in a vehicle without a permit/license see “RV/Car Carry Section.” In some cities, open carry is rare but more common in rural areas. Places as listed in the “Places Off Limits” above apply to those who open carry. See the “RV/Car Carry Without a Permit” section for carrying in a vehicle.

The state preempts firearm laws but did allow local laws/ordinances at the time preemption passed (April 8, 1986) to be grandfathered. Remember that if you enter any property and the owner/responsible person ask you to leave you must leave. Failure to leave can result in Trespass Charges.

Open Carry could be forbidden in places where those with a valid permit/license can carry, please continue reading for more.

State Preemption

39-17-1359. Prohibition at Certain Meetings - Posting Notice

(a)

(2) The prohibition in subdivision (a)(1) shall apply to any person who is authorized to carry a firearm by authority of § 39-17-1351.

(b)

(1) Notice of the prohibition permitted by subsection (a) shall be accomplished by displaying the notice described in subdivision (b)(3) 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. The notice shall be plainly visible to the average person entering the
building, property, or portion of the building or property, posted.

(3)

(B) The sign shall include a pictorial representation of the phrase “NO FIREARMS ALLOWED” that shall include a red circle with a red diagonal line through the circle and a black image of a firearm inside the red circle under the diagonal line. The entire pictorial representation shall be at least four inches (4″) high and four inches (4″) wide. The diagonal line shall be at a forty-five
degree (45°) angle from the upper left to the lower right side of the circle.

(c)

(1) It is an offense to possess a weapon in a building or on property that is properly posted in accordance with this section.

(2) Possession of a weapon on posted property in violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by fine only of five hundred dollars ($500).

(d) Nothing in this section shall be construed to alter, reduce or eliminate any civil or criminal liability that a property owner or manager may have for injuries arising on their property.

(e) The provisions of this section shall not apply to title 70 regarding wildlife laws, rules and regulations.

(g)

(1) Notwithstanding title 29, chapter 20, a party who is adversely affected by an ordinance, resolution, policy, rule, or other enactment that is adopted or enforced by a county, city, town, municipality, or metropolitan government or any local agency, department, or official that violates this section may file an action in a court of competent jurisdiction against the county, city, town, municipality, or metropolitan government for:

(A) Declaratory and injunctive relief; and
(B) Damages, as provided in subsection (i).

(2) This subsection (g) shall apply to any ordinance, resolution, policy, rule, or other enactment that is adopted or enforced on or after July 1, 2017.

(h) As used in subsection (g), a party is "adversely affected" if:

(1) The party is an individual who:

(A) Lawfully resides within the United States;
(B) May legally possess a firearm under Tennessee law; and
(C) Is or was subject to the ordinance, resolution, policy, rule, or other enactment that is the subject of an action filed under subsection.(g). An individual is or was subject to the ordinance, resolution, policy, rule, or other enactment if the individual is or was physically present within the boundaries of the political subdivision for any reason; or

(2) The party is a membership organization that:

(A) Includes two (2) or more individuals described in subdivision (h)(1); and
(B) Is dedicated in whole or in part to protecting the rights of persons who possess, own, or use firearms for competitive, sporting, defensive, or other lawful purposes.

(i) A prevailing plaintiff in an action under subsection (g) is entitled to recover from the county, city, town, municipality, or metropolitan government the following:

(1) The greater of:

(A) Actual damages, including consequential damages, attributable to the ordinance, resolution, policy, rule, or other enactment; or

(B) Liquidated damages of three (3) times the plaintiff's attorney's fees;

(2) Court costs, including fees; and
(3) Reasonable attorney's fees.

Laws Regarding Deadly Force

Title 39 Chpt. 11 Part 6

39-11-601. Justification a defense
39-11-602. Justification definitions
39-11-603. Confinement as justifiable force
39-11-604. Reckless injury of innocent third person
39-11-605. Civil remedies unaffected
39-11-609 . Necessity
39-11-610. Public duty
39-11-611. Self-defense
39-11-612. Defense of third person
39-11-613. Protection of life or health
39-11-614. Protection of property
39-11-615. Protection of third person's property
39-11-616. Use of device to protect property
39-11-620. Use of deadly force by a law enforcement officer
39-11-621. Use of deadly force by private citizen
39-11-622. Justification for use of force — Exceptions — Immunity from civil liability

Laws Regarding Chemical Sprays, Stun Guns, and Higher Capacity Magazines

As of the moment, there are no restrictions in Tennessee Law concerning Chemical Sprays, Stun Guns Or Higher Capacity Magazine Bans.

Airport Carry and Other Misc. Information

Airport Carry: Building/Lots must be posted for law to apply § 39-17-1359.

Training Valid for: 12 Months

Time Period to Establish Residency: 30 Days

Minimum Age for Permit/License: 21 Years Old ( 18 for Veterans/Active Military)

Permit/License Info Public Information: NO

State Reciprocity/How They Honor Other States Statute: 39-17-1351.

State Fire arm Laws: 39-17-1301 thru 39-17-1361

.State Deadly Force Laws: 39-11-611

.State Knife Laws: 39-17-1397 & 39-17-1301 thru 39-17-1310

Chemical/Electric Weapons Laws: 39-13-803

Body Armor Laws: 39-17-1323

Does Your Permit Cover Other Weapons Besides Firearms? NO 39-17-1351.

Is carrying of a Concealed Firearm with Permit/License for Defensive Purposes Only While Hunting Legal? YES; Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Hunting and Trapping Guide.

What Does Tennessee Consider A Loaded Firearm?

39-17-1319 & 39-17-1301

(18) “Unloaded” means the rifle, shotgun or handgun does not have ammunition in the chamber, cylinder, clip or magazine, and no clip or magazine is in the immediate vicinity of the weapon.

State Emergency Powers

58-2-107. Emergency Management Powers of the Governor

(a)

(1) The governor is responsible for addressing the dangers presented to this state and its people by emergencies. In the event of an emergency beyond local control, the governor, or, in the governor's absence, the governor's successor as provided by law, may assume direct operational control over all or any part of the emergency management functions within this state, and such person has the power through proper process of law to carry out this chapter. The governor is authorized to delegate such powers as the governor may deem prudent.

(2) Pursuant to the authority vested in the governor under subdivision (a) (1), the governor may issue executive orders, proclamations, and rules and may amend or rescind them. Such executive orders, proclamations, and rules have the force and effect of law.

(b) The governor or the governor's designee, shall declare a state of emergency or a disaster declaration in one (1) of two (2) ways:

(1) By executive order or proclamation; or

(2) By the activation of the TEMP.

(2) These two (2) types of threats may be declared by the governor if the governor finds an emergency has occurred or the occurrence of threat thereof is imminent. The state of emergency shall continue until the governor finds that the threat or danger has been dealt with to the extent that the emergency conditions no longer exist and the governor terminates the state of emergency by executive order or proclamation, but no state of emergency may continue for longer than sixty (60) days unless renewed by the governor. All executive orders or proclamations issued under this section shall indicate the nature of the emergency, the area or areas threatened, and the conditions which have brought the emergency about or which make possible its termination. An executive order or proclamation shall be promptly disseminated by means calculated to bring its contents to the attention of the general public; and, unless the circumstances attendant upon the emergency prevent or impede such filing, the order or proclamation shall be filed promptly with the department of state and in the office of the chief executive officer in each county to which the order or proclamation applies.

(e) In addition to any other powers conferred upon the governor by law, the governor may:

(1) Suspend the provisions of any law, order, rule or regulation prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business or the orders or rules or regulations of any state agency, if strict compliance with the provisions of any such law, order, rule, or regulation would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with the emergency;

(4) Subject to any applicable requirements for compensation, commandeer or utilize any private property, which term shall not be construed to include firearms, ammunition, or firearm or ammunition components, if the governor finds this necessary to cope with the emergency;

(5) Direct and compel the evacuation of all or part of the population from any stricken or threatened area within the state if the governor deems this action necessary for the preservation of life or other emergency mitigation, response, or recovery;

(6) Prescribe routes, modes of transportation, and destinations in connection with evacuation;

(7) Control ingress and egress to and from an emergency area, the movement of persons within the area, and the occupancy of premises therein;

(8) Suspend or limit the sale, dispensing, or transportation of alcoholic beverages, explosives, or combustibles, which terms shall not be construed to include firearms, ammunition, or firearm or ammunition components;

(11) Take measures concerning the conduct of civilians, the movement and cessation of movement of pedestrian and vehicular traffic prior to, during, and subsequent to drills and actual or threatened emergencies, the calling of public meetings and gatherings, and the evacuation and reception of civilian population, as provided in the TEMP and political subdivisions thereof; and

(m) During any state of emergency, major disaster or natural disaster, the state, a political subdivision or a public official shall not prohibit nor impose additional restrictions on the lawful possession, transfer, sale, transport, carrying, storage, display or use of firearms and ammunition or firearm and ammunition components.

The Federal Law can apply if the state is receiving monetary and/or other assistance from the Federal Government. See US Code 42-5207 for Federal Law as it applies to States of Emergencies. The state quoted code may also not be all of the law on Emergency Powers held by the state. You should read the entire code on Emergency Powers etc for this state by following the link to the state code.

Minimum Age for Possessing and Transporting of Handguns

Tennessee: 18 Years Old

39-17-1319 This is the minimum age for possessing and transporting a handgun unloaded and secured in a vehicle without any type of permit/license to carry firearms. Note: In some states Possession and Transportation CAN be very restrictive in that you can ONLY possess and transport a handgun to and from a Shooting Range, Gun Shop, property you own or other places you can legally possess a handgun. Some states do not have this restriction.