Prohibited from Buying
An individual is prohibited from owning and purchasing a firearm if that person:[1]
Registering a Firearm
The formal government registration of privately owned firearms is prohibited in Tennessee.[4]
Concealed Carry
All Tennessee residents wishing to carry a concealed weapon in public must first obtain an Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit or a Concealed Handgun Carry Permit.
How to Apply
Applicants for either permit must be at least 21 or 18 years old and an active or honorably discharged U.S. military service member.
- Submit an application for a concealed carry permit online with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.
- Complete a Tennessee handgun safety course.[5]
- Attach the following:
- Proof of adequate competence with a handgun;[6]
- Proof of citizenship or permanent residency;
- Proof of identity; and
- Proof of whole SSN.
- Submit the application to the nearest Driver Services Center.
- Submit a photograph at the Center.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit the applicant’s fingerprints as instructed by the Driver Services Center.
- Pass a name-based criminal history record check conducted by the Department of Safety.
Reciprocity
Tennessee recognizes concealed carry permits from all U.S. states that offer them to their residents.[7]