Gun laws in Tennessee

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Gun laws in Tennessee regulate the sale, possession, and use of firearms and ammunition in the state of Tennessee in the United States. These laws are designed to balance the rights of individuals to own and carry firearms with the need to ensure public safety.

Overview

Tennessee has a mix of permissive and restrictive gun laws. The state generally supports the right to bear arms, as outlined in the Second Amendment, but also imposes certain restrictions to enhance public safety.

Permits and Licensing

Tennessee issues two types of handgun carry permits: the Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit (EHCP) and the Concealed Handgun Carry Permit (CHCP). The EHCP allows for both open and concealed carry, while the CHCP is limited to concealed carry only.

Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit (EHCP)

To obtain an EHCP, applicants must:

• Be at least 21 years old (18 for military personnel)
• Complete a state-approved handgun safety course
• Pass a background check
• Submit fingerprints

Concealed Handgun Carry Permit (CHCP)

The CHCP has similar requirements to the EHCP but does not require a handgun safety course. Applicants must:

• Be at least 21 years old (18 for military personnel)
• Pass a background check
• Submit fingerprints

Open Carry

Open carry of handguns is permitted in Tennessee for individuals with an EHCP. Long guns can be openly carried without a permit.

Prohibited Places

Even with a permit, firearms are prohibited in certain locations, including:

• Schools and school property
• Government buildings
• Courthouses
• Airports
• Establishments serving alcohol (unless the individual is not consuming alcohol)

Background Checks

Federal law requires background checks for all firearm purchases from licensed dealers. Tennessee does not mandate background checks for private sales, but it is recommended.

Stand Your Ground Law

Tennessee has a stand-your-ground law, which allows individuals to use deadly force in self-defense without the duty to retreat if they believe they are in imminent danger.

Related Pages

• Second Amendment to the United States Constitution
• Gun laws in the United States
• Stand-your-ground law
• Concealed carry in the United States
• Open carry in the United States