You Asked Us: Tennessee Gun Laws

Since the passage of Senate Bill 705 has created a new concealed carry permit in Tennessee. This has prompted questions from state residents regarding Tennessee gun laws. Here are some of the questions that have arisen with the passage of the new Tennessee concealed carry only permit.

Question: Does this mean my concealed carry permit is no longer valid?

Answer: Your concealed and open carry permit has been renamed an “enhanced” carry permit. It is still very much in effect. Many prefer it to the new  Concealed Carry Only permit.

Question: What are the advantages of this new permit?

Answer: Depending on who you talk to, there are some advantages. The course takes only ninety minutes. There is no “hands on” component. You don’t have to drive anywhere to take the class. You can log on from anywhere and take the instruction and test any time of the day or night.

 Question: What was wrong with the existing  Concealed or Open carry permit Tennessee was using?

Answer: There was nothing wrong with the existing handgun permit. In fact, there was a lot right about it. That’s why Tennessee has retained and renamed this permit thee “enhanced” concealed and open carry permit. 

Question: What are the advantages of the new concealed carry only permit?

Answer: If you intend to concealed carry, the extra expensive, time and more rigorous testing of the enhanced concealed/open carry permit aren’t worth your time, gas, and money. The new permit is a little cheaper and you can qualify online.

Question: Can I get a concealed carry permit in Tennessee online?

Answer: Tennessee—as of January 1, 2020—has a new handgun permit law. Residents can get their concealed carry permits online. This permit allows concealed carry only. There is no demonstration of experience shooting a gun required.

Question: What about my Kentucky Concealed Carry permit?

Answer:  The state of Tennessee honors concealed carry permits from all other states under the new Concealed Carry Reciprocity legislation. You’re covered.

Question: Will my new Tennessee Concealed Carry permit be accepted in other states?

Answer: An increasing number of states have accepted Concealed Carry Reciprocity legislation. In most states, your concealed carry permit will be accepted. Always check first.

Question: If I carry a gun without a permit, will I be penalized?

Answer: Yes. If to you are caught carrying a gun in Tennessee and you do not have a permit, you will be charged. If it is your first violation, you will be charged. This is a Class C misdemeanor. It  comes with a fine of up to $500 and/or thirty days jail time.

Question:  Who qualifies to provide the online instruction for the new concealed carry only permit?

Answer: The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security has accepted applications from potential providers of an online concealed-carry course. Course providers must show proof of handgun instructor certification.

Question: Where can I find an online provider for the new Tennessee concealed carry permit?

Answer: For more information on state laws for Tennessee concealed carry permit, click here.