Tennessee Guide

Last Updated: 01/22/2026

Note: This guide summarizes statewide requirements. Some specific locations (such as federal property, schools, airports, or tribal lands) may have additional restrictions. Always verify the latest laws with state agencies or legal counsel before purchasing or carrying. This information is provided for general guidance and is not legal advice.

Quick Cheat Sheet

Buying a Gun:

  • Minimum age: 21 Handgun , 18 Long gun
  • Dealer sales background check: Required
  • Waiting period: None
  • Private sales: No background check required

Concealed Carry:

  • Permit required? No, Tennessee has permitless carry for those 21 and older who can legally possess a firearm. A Concealed Handgun Carry Permit (CHCP) is available and provides certain benefits, such as reciprocity.
  • Training required? Not required for permitless carry. However, training is required for obtaining an Enhanced or Concealed Handgun Carry Permit.
  • Out-of-state permit recognition: Yes — recognizes permits from all other states.

Special Notes:

  • Tennessee has statewide preemption of firearm laws.
  • No red flag laws. State law explicitly preempts any body from issuing or accepting extreme risk protection orders.
  • No assault weapon or magazine capacity restrictions.
  • No firearm registration requirements. Tennessee explicitly forbids them and destroys all records (except the unique identifying number and the date that it was assigned) associating a particular individual with a particular purchase of firearms.

How to Buy a Gun in Tennessee

Prerequisites

  • Age: 21 Handgun through an FFL, 18 Long gun. Those 18-20 may purchase through private sales.
  • Residency: Federal law requires all handgun purchases to occur in your state of residency. Buyers must be U.S. citizens or legal residents. State residency is not required for long gun purchases from FFL dealers in Tennessee.
  • ID requirements: Valid and current government-issued ID that includes the purchaser’s name, photo, and date of birth. Proof of address must also be presented. The valid ID does not have to be from the USA; Tennessee accepts foreign-issued identification (§ 39-17-1316 f).
  • Prohibited-person highlights: Felons, domestic violence misdemeanors or restraining orders, unlawful drug users, fugitives, those adjudicated mentally defective or committed, and other federally prohibited categories.

Dealer Purchase Steps

  1. Visit a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer.
  2. Present valid ID, proof of residency, and complete the ATF Form 4473.
  3. Dealer conducts a background check through the Tennessee Instant Check System (TICS).
  4. If approved, complete the purchase.

Private Sales / Gun Shows

  • No background check is required for private, in-state sales between non-licensed individuals.
  • At gun shows, only sales by non-licensed attendees are treated as private sales; licensed dealers must run a background check.
  • Federal prohibited-person rules still apply at gun shows and for private sales.

Special Categories / Exceptions

  • Long guns vs handguns vs NFA items: No special restrictions for long guns or handguns. NFA items (e.g., suppressors) are legal with the appropriate federal paperwork.
  • Non-resident purchases allowed only for long gun purchases and the purchaser must comply with federal law and the laws of their home state.

Waiting Period & Timing

  • Waiting period (days): Tennessee has no waiting period for firearm purchases.
  • Notes / exceptions: Immediate purchase upon background check approval.

Common Pitfalls / Practical Tips

  • While 18-20 year-olds may purchase handguns through private sales, federal law sets the minimum age to buy handgun ammunition from an FFL at 21. Those under 21 who wish to purchase handgun ammo must do so through private sales.
  • Confirm dealer requirements for proof of residency.
  • Ensure all information on the ATF Form 4473 is accurate to avoid delays.
  • If TICS is delayed, dealers may be required to hold the firearm per federal rules.
  • Federal law creates various exceptions for law enforcement and military personnel which are not covered by these guides. Consult your official sources.
  • Marijuana users of any kind are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms. The ATF and many courts treat a medical marijuana card as presumptive evidence of unlawful use. Marijuana use while possessing a firearm is a felony, though recent court rulings are challenging this, and the Supreme Court has taken up a relevant case with a ruling likely in June or July of 2026.

How to Carry Concealed in Tennessee

System Type

  • Permitless carry. Legal for individuals 21 and older who can legally possess a firearm.
  • Two different permits exist in Tennessee. An Concealed Handgun Carry Permit (CHCP) is an available option and provides certain benefits like state reciprocity and allows the holder concealed carry. An Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit (EHCP) is a more thorough process which allows for both concealed and open carry. The EHCP also allows for members of school staff to carry on school grounds. There are additional permit types available, such as temporary permits for people who have been granted Orders of Protection and lifetime versions of the EHCP. A full list of permit types can be found here. Fundamentally the difference between both of these permits and someone utilizing Permitless Carry is the ability to open or concealed carry on certain state land such as parks, greenways, and nature trails.

Prerequisites for EHCP / CHCP

  • Age: 18 years or older.
  • Residency: Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident and have Tennessee residency.
  • Training: Complete an online or in-person, approved safety course or equivalent (e.g., military service). The state provides a list of approved schools for both Enhanced and Concealed Permits (found here).
  • Disqualifying factors: Felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions, adjudicated mental incompetence, and any condition that makes the applicant prohibited under federal law (e.g., involuntary commitment or unlawful controlled substance use). This list is not exhaustive, consult an official resource.

Application Steps

  1. Complete the online application through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Handgun Carry Permit portal.
  2. Attend firearms training (e.g., NRA course, hunter safety, military service, law enforcement, or TN-approved class).
  3. Visit a Tennessee Driver Services Center to provide proof of citizenship, residency, completion of firearms training, and to have your photo taken, pay all applicable fees, and receive directions on providing fingerprints.
  4. If approved, the permit is issued by mail (valid for 8 years).

Training Requirements

  • The CHCP requires a minimum of a 90 minute online course. The EHCP requires a 8-hour handgun safety course from a Tennessee certified handgun safety school (completed within 12 months prior to application). Alternative certification methods exist such as existing out-of-state licenses and military training (the full list of accepted ‘training’ is found here). To avoid delays or denials, use the official Handgun Safety School list provided by the state (found here).

Processing Time

  • Typically times vary, limited by statute to 90 days.

License validity period

  • Enhanced Handgun Carry Permits and Concealed Handgun Carry Permits are valid for 8 years.
  • Renewals submitted before the expiration of your previous permit are not subject to additional training course requirements.
  • Both the EHCP and the CHCP are subject to mandatory automatic background checks every 4 years.

Restrictions / Prohibited Places

  • Schools (K–12), colleges/universities (with exceptions for storage in vehicle). This changes for EHCP holders. Consult official training information for up-to-date procedures for school employees wishing to carry on campus with an EHCP.
  • Polling places on Election Day.
  • Secured areas of airports, nuclear facilities,and certain government buildings where firearms are restricted by federal law.
  • Posted private property (“no guns” signs carry legal force).
  • Bars/restaurants serving alcohol unless not drinking and holding permit.
  • Do not carry while consuming alcohol; carrying while consuming alcohol is illegal and punishable by law.
  • This list is not exhaustive, consult your Handgun Carry Permit training resource.

Reciprocity

  • Out-of-state permits recognized: Yes, all states.
  • State permits recognized elsewhere? Many states. The state provides a full list of Tennessee’s current reciprocity agreement statuses (found here).

Denial & Appeal Process

  • Written notice provided if denied within 10 days of rejection.
  • Refer to your denial notice for appeal options.

Common Pitfalls / Practical Tips

  • Permitless carry is only for ages 21+. While a 2023 federal court ruling required Tennessee to provide a path for 18-20 year olds to carry, the state satisfied this by lowering the permit age to 18 (HB 1332, May 2025). Those 18-20 must obtain an EHCP or CHCP to carry legally.
  • Real ID holders can complete their applications for either the EHCP or CHCP online and do not need to visit a Driver Services Center in-person.
  • Even with permit, private property postings override carry rights.
  • Carrying in prohibited places can result in serious penalties.
  • Carrying while intoxicated can result in serious penalties.
  • Ensure your Handgun Carry Permit is renewed before expiration to avoid legal issues.
  • Federal law creates various exceptions for law enforcement and military personnel which are not covered by these guides. Consult your official sources.

Associated Fees

  • Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit: $100 – covers application and background check. Does not cover fingerprinting.
  • Concealed Handgun Carry Permit: $65 – covers application and background check. Does not cover fingerprinting.
  • EHCP/CHCP Permit Renewal: $50
  • Other Fees / Notes: Fingerprinting costs ~$5. Online certification classes and testing are in the $20-50 range.

Trans-Specific Considerations

IMPORTANT: Gender marker changes are NOT possible in Tennessee as of July 2023. Tennessee law prohibits changing gender markers on birth certificates, driver’s licenses, and all other official documents. As such any EHCP or CHCP in TN will retain the sex designation assigned at birth.

IMPORTANT – A Note on Enhanced Permits and Constitutional Carry: While many constitutional carry states offer optional enhanced or extended permits that provide benefits like reciprocity in other states, we generally advise caution before applying for these permits given the current regulatory environment’s hostility to our community.

Evidence from states like Texas shows that trans people who sought information about updating gender markers on firearms documents were tracked in databases for undisclosed purposes, demonstrating that permit applications can be used to create targeted lists of trans gun owners.

In states with hostile administrative regimes, the modest benefits of enhanced permits may not outweigh the privacy and safety risks of voluntarily placing yourself in additional government databases.

Each member of our community must weigh these considerations based on their individual circumstances and needs, but if constitutional carry already allows you to carry without a permit in your home state, further enhanced permits may be unnecessary and carry serious risk.

Name Changes in Progress

  • Your ID must be current and valid at the time of purchase. If your name change is finalized but your ID has not yet been updated, you may face delays or denial. If possible, complete your ID update before attempting to purchase.
  • CHCP Applications: If you submit an application and your legal name changes during processing, notify your issuing authority immediately. Failure to update your information could result in application denial or a permit issued under an incorrect name, which may create legal complications when carrying.
  • Form 4473 Accuracy: The ATF Form 4473 must reflect your current legal name as it appears on your government-issued ID. The form also asks for sex information; at present, using the gender marker on your current government-issued ID is the standard practice. Using identifying information that does not match your ID could constitute providing false information and may result in denial or legal consequences.
  • Practical Implications: Tennessee’s constitutional carry law means that most trans individuals will not need a permit to carry. However, it is important if at all possible to complete all legal name changes and obtain updated government ID before beginning the firearms purchase or applying for the state’s EHCP or CHCP. Tennessee’s relatively straightforward process for updating IDs makes this feasible, and helps to avoid potential complications with background checks and application processing.

Updating an Existing EHCP or CHCP Permit After Name Change

  • Where to update: Handgun carry permits in Tennessee are issued and managed by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Updates for name changes must be done by contacting the Handgun Permit Division.
  • Required documentation: Legal documentation proving your name change, be prepared to provide proof of your name change (court order, updated birth certificate, or other official documentation).
  • Update process: The process must be completed in person at a Tennessee Department of Safety Driver Services Center. We strongly recommend that you update both your driver’s license and your handgun carry permit at the same time, as both are done through the same department. Bring your current permit, your current ID, and all legal name change documentation.
  • Processing fee: $10
  • Processing time: Usually less than a week, then depends on mail delivery time (see note below).
  • Important notes on carrying: 
    • Your EHCP/CHCP permit should reflect your current legal name before you carry concealed. A mismatch between your ID and permit could create complications during a law enforcement encounter. While Tennessee is a constitutional carry state and permits are optional for residents 21+, if you choose to obtain or maintain a permit for reciprocity purposes, keeping it current is important.

Notes:

  • There are ongoing regulatory developments regarding sex designation requirements on Form 4473. We are monitoring this situation and will update this guide as more information becomes available.

State-Specific Considerations

  • Local ordinance preemption: Yes, local governments cannot impose firearm regulations stricter than state law. Some exceptions exist allowing localities to regulate areas such as the carrying of firearms by their employees when acting in the course of employment, the discharge of firearms within boundaries except when authorized by state law, the location of sport shooting ranges, and the enforcement of state or federal firearm laws.
  • Assault weapons / magazine limits: No statewide assault-weapon ban or magazine cap beyond any established federal restrictions.
  • ERPO / Red flag laws: Not in effect in Tennessee.
  • Registration requirements: None.
  • Safe storage laws: Not required by state law.
  • Transportation rules: Persons with valid Enhanced or Concealed Handgun Carry Permits or who lawfully carry under permitless carry may transport and store firearms in their motor vehicles in public or private parking areas if:
    • The vehicle is legally parked
    • The firearm is kept from ordinary observation if the person is in the vehicle, or kept from ordinary observation and locked within the trunk, glove box, or interior of the vehicle or a container securely affixed to the vehicle if the person is not in the vehicle.
    • Firearms can be carried loaded or unloaded by those who lawfully possess them, and the firearm does not violate the law if observed during the ordinary course of securing it.

Official Links & Documents

State Statutes / Codes

State Police / Firearms Division

Permit Applications / Forms

Attorney General Opinions / Court Decisions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can non-residents buy a gun in this state?
Non-residents may purchase long guns in the state if they comply with federal law and their home state laws. Handgun purchases are generally restricted to state residents, with limited exceptions for law enforcement or military personnel.

Are private sales required to do background checks?
No, private sales do not require background checks in Tennessee.

How long is the waiting period?
There is no waiting period for firearm purchases in Tennessee.

What is the minimum age to buy a handgun?
21 from a dealer; 18 for private handgun sales.

Do I need a permit to carry concealed?
No. Tennessee allows permitless carry for adults 21+. Permits are optional.

Where am I prohibited from carrying even with a permit?
You are prohibited from carrying, even with a Handgun Carry Permit, at schools (K–12) and on school grounds (including school‑sanctioned events); polling places on Election Day; courts, jails, and correctional facilities; posted private property (“no firearms” signs carry legal force under § 39-17-1359); secured areas of airports, nuclear facilities, and certain government buildings where firearms are restricted by federal law. Carrying in bars or restaurants that serve alcohol is allowed only if you do not consume alcohol while armed and the establishment does not have a lawful “no firearms” sign. This list is not exhaustive, consult an official resource.

Are ghost guns or unserialized guns legal?
Tennessee does not have its own ghost-gun ban, but federal rules (and recent judicial rulings) now regulate kits/parts — check ATF guidance.

Are out-of-state permits recognized here?
Yes. Tennessee recognizes all valid state permits.

How long does the permit process typically take?
Up to 90 days, usually shorter.

What happens if my concealed carry permit is denied?
You receive written notice and may appeal through an administrative process.