Tennessee’s firearm regulations blend strong Second Amendment protections with public safety considerations. This 2025 guide details Tennessee’s permitless carry, concealed and open carry rules, firearm purchase requirements, reciprocity agreements, and recent legislative updates.
Overview of Tennessee Gun Laws
Tennessee adopted permitless carry (constitutional carry) in July 2021. Eligible individuals may carry firearms—openly or concealed—without a state-issued permit, though permits remain available for reciprocity purposes.
Permitless Carry in Tennessee
Since July 1, 2021, any person 21 or older who may legally possess a firearm may carry it openly or concealed without a permit.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be at least 21 years old (18+ for active duty military, veterans, or honorably discharged)
- No felony convictions or convictions for violent misdemeanors
- Not subject to protective orders or adjudicated as mentally incompetent
Concealed Handgun Permits (CHP)
Though not required in-state, Tennessee issues concealed handgun permits for those who seek broader reciprocity.
Application Requirements:
- Must be 21 or older (18+ for qualifying military applicants)
- Complete a firearms training course meeting Tennessee standards
- Submit fingerprints and pass a background check
- Pay applicable fees and provide proof of training
Open Carry in Tennessee
Open carry is legal for eligible individuals without a permit. Private property owners and certain locations (schools, courts, and government buildings) may prohibit firearms with proper signage.
Purchasing Firearms in Tennessee
Handguns & Long Guns:
- No state permit or registration required
- No waiting periods mandated by state law
- Background checks required only when purchasing from federally licensed dealers
Tennessee does not require firearm registration or waiting periods at the state level.
Magazine and Firearm Restrictions
- No state-imposed magazine capacity limits
- No bans on so-called “assault weapons” beyond federal regulations
Reciprocity Agreements
Tennessee concealed handgun permits are honored by most states offering reciprocity. Permitless carry applies solely within Tennessee.
- Always verify reciprocity before traveling.
Transporting Firearms
Unloaded firearms must be transported in a locked container or trunk, unless carried by an eligible individual under permitless carry provisions.
Recent and Upcoming Changes for 2025
- Legislative reviews on expanding permitless carry to 18+ for civilians
- Ongoing discussions regarding firearm safety education and juvenile access restrictions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a concealed handgun permit required to carry in Tennessee?
No permit is required for individuals meeting eligibility, but obtaining a permit offers reciprocity benefits when traveling.
Can private businesses prohibit firearms on their premises?
Yes, private property owners and certain venues can ban firearms with clear signage under state law.
Are there any firearm bans in state parks or wildlife areas?
Firearms are allowed in state parks, except where specifically restricted by park regulations (e.g., controlled hunting zones).
Sources Cited
- Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security – Firearms
- Tennessee Code Annotated – Title 39, Chapter 17, Firearms
- National Rifle Association – Tennessee Gun Laws
- ATF – Federal Firearms Regulations
- Handgunlaw.us – Tennessee Concealed Carry Reciprocity
Always consult these official resources and local authorities for the latest updates on Tennessee firearm laws.