Weapons in CMVs - Tennessee

Tennessee is a constitutional carry state, which means law-abiding adults 18 years and older who can legally possess a firearm under federal and state law may carry a concealed handgun without obtaining a permit. This extends to carrying a weapon in a private vehicle if the carrier is in lawful possession of the vehicle.

Permits

Tennessee concealed handgun carry permits (CHCPs) are not required but may be useful for reciprocity with other states. There are two levels of concealed handgun carry permits, regular and enhanced. Enhanced permits require additional training and confer additional benefits. Permits are available to qualified residents and to non-residents who regularly work in the state and hold a concealed carry permit from their home states. Licenses are issued by the state’s Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Tennessee has broad reciprocity with a majority of other states.

Other weapons

No weapons other than handguns are approved for concealed carry in Tennessee.

Permitted non-lethal weapons include:

• Stun guns/tasers
• Pepper spray
• Tear gas
• Bear spray (legal for self-defense against wildlife)
• Bludgeons/batons
• Less-lethal launchers

Duty to inform

There is no duty to inform in Tennessee; however, if a permit holder is concealed carrying in a location where concealed carry would be prohibited without the permit, the holder must be prepared to present the permit if asked by law enforcement.

Employee parking lots

Employers may not prohibit employees from storing firearms or ammunition in private vehicles, as long as the firearm/ammunition is kept out of view from outside the vehicle, is kept in a locked compartment within the vehicle, and is parked in a location where the vehicle is allowed to be.