CARRY STATUS
CONCEALED101SOUTH REGION · TN
Tennessee
Concealed Carry Guide
Tennessee allows permitless handgun carry for qualifying people subject to state conditions. Concealed-only and enhanced handgun carry permits remain available.
Before you rely on this guide
This is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice. Eligibility, restricted locations, local rules, court orders, and reciprocity can change. Confirm the current law with the official agencies linked on this page.
AT A GLANCE
Tennessee carry overview
STATE PERMIT
Available
ISSUING AUTHORITY
Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security
LAST REVIEWED
August 17, 2026
01
PERMIT AND CARRY STATUS
What the statewide framework says
Tennessee allows permitless handgun carry for qualifying people subject to state conditions. Concealed-only and enhanced handgun carry permits remain available.
02
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Training before an application
Training depends on permit type: the concealed-only and enhanced permits use different approved course formats and requirements.
Practical next step: Ask the issuing authority whether your instructor, course format, certificate, and live-fire qualification satisfy the current application rules before paying for a class.
Browse training in Tennessee →03
NONRESIDENTS AND TRAVEL
Crossing a state line changes the rules
Tennessee's nonresident permit options are limited. Visitors should check Tennessee's recognition rules and understand that permitless eligibility does not remove location restrictions.
Reciprocity caution: Recognition of a permit does not make every rule identical. Vehicle carry, notice signs, prohibited places, duty to inform, alcohol-related locations, and magazine or firearm restrictions may differ.
VERIFY WITH PRIMARY SOURCES
Official Tennessee references
Use these sources for current application forms, eligibility language, statutory changes, and agency notices.