Wondering what's happening with Tennessee gun laws in 2025? You're not alone. Tennessee's approach to firearm regulation continues to evolve, and staying informed is crucial if you own a gun or are thinking about purchasing one. The Volunteer State has maintained its reputation for relatively permissive gun legislation, but there are important nuances and recent changes you absolutely need to understand to stay on the right side of the law.

At McNally Law, we've been helping Tennesseans navigate the complex landscape of firearms regulations for decades. Our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys regularly represents clients facing weapons charges and stays constantly updated on legislative changes that might affect your rights as a gun owner. We're committed to providing clear, practical information that helps you make informed decisions.

Key Takeaways

• Tennessee remains a constitutional carry state in 2025, allowing eligible adults to carry handguns without permits, but with important limitations
• Background checks are still required for retail firearm purchases, with specific exceptions for private sales
• Recent legislative updates have modified where and how firearms can be transported and stored
• Gun owners face enhanced penalties if firearms are used in the commission of crimes or possessed by prohibited persons
• Non-residents must be aware of reciprocity agreements, which continue to change in 2025

Understanding Tennessee's Constitutional Carry Law

Tennessee's constitutional carry law that went into effect in 2021 remains the foundation of the state's approach to gun ownership and carrying in 2025. But what does this actually mean for you?

The law allows most adults 21 and older to carry handguns, both openly and concealed, without a permit. For military members, the age requirement drops to 18.

Not so fast.

There are crucial exceptions you need to know. Constitutional carry doesn't apply to long guns. And certain locations remain strictly off-limits, including:

• Schools and school-sponsored events
• Federal buildings
• Private properties where owners have posted notices prohibiting firearms
• Parks and recreational areas when public events are taking place
• Places where alcohol is served

The 2024 legislative session introduced several modifications to these restrictions, particularly regarding how gun owners can secure firearms in vehicles when entering prohibited locations. These changes have carried over into 2025.

Who Can't Possess Firearms in Tennessee

Despite Tennessee's permissive gun laws, not everyone can legally possess firearms. The prohibited persons list includes:

• Felons
• Those subject to domestic violence protection orders
• People who have been committed to mental institutions or adjudicated as mentally defective
• Dishonorably discharged military personnel
• Individuals convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors
• Undocumented immigrants

And don't forget conviction for drug offenses, including marijuana possession, can affect your gun rights under federal law, even as Tennessee has modified some of its cannabis statutes.

Purchasing Firearms: What's Changed and What Hasn't

Buying a gun in Tennessee? Here's what you should know.

• The background check requirement for purchases from licensed dealers hasn't changed. The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) remains mandatory for retail purchases.
• Private sales? Different story. Tennessee doesn't require background checks for private transactions between individuals. However, knowingly selling to a prohibited person remains illegal and could result in serious criminal charges.
  

Recent legislation has also addressed "ghost guns" and 3D-printed firearms, with new regulations implemented in late 2024 continuing into 2025.

 Tennessee Ghost Gun & 3D-Printed Firearm Regulations (2025)

Tennessee Gun Permits in 2025

Wait, if Tennessee is a constitutional carry state, why bother with permits at all?

Tennessee offers two types of permits that provide benefits beyond constitutional carry:

1. Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit: Requires training and provides the broadest reciprocity with other states
2. Concealed Handgun Carry Permit: Fewer requirements but recognized in fewer states

Why get one? Reciprocity is the big one. If you travel outside Tennessee, having a permit might allow you to legally carry in other states.

The application process in 2025 remains similar to previous years, with online options available through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

Recent Changes to Tennessee Gun Laws

Key updates leading into 2025 include:

• Expanded protections for gun owners who store firearms in vehicles
• Modified regulations regarding firearms in state parks and natural areas
• Updated rules for carrying during emergency declarations and evacuations
• Enhanced penalties for gun theft and trafficking

The "Second Amendment Sanctuary Act" continues to affect how federal gun laws are enforced within state borders.

Understanding Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground Laws

Tennessee maintains strong self-defense protections through its Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground provisions.

• The Castle Doctrine means no duty to  retreat at home, in car, or at work
  
• Stand Your Ground extends that to any place you are legally present
  

But these laws don't provide blanket immunity. Reasonableness is evaluated case by case. If you’re involved in a self-defense situation, seek legal representation immediately.

Gun-Free Zones and Where You Can't Carry

You can’t carry in these locations:

• Federal buildings and courthouses
  
• Schools and universities (with limited exceptions)
  
• Meetings of government entities
  
• Airports (secured areas)
  
• Mental health facilities
  
• Places that serve alcohol (unless you’re not drinking)
  
• Private properties with posted firearm prohibitions
  

Violations can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.

Transporting Firearms in Tennessee

Tennessee law allows firearms to be transported in private vehicles, loaded or unloaded, without a permit if you're legally allowed to possess them.

Crossing state lines? Federal law applies under the Firearm Owners Protection Act:

• The firearm must be unloaded
  
• Firearm and ammunition must not be readily accessible (locked in trunk, etc.)
  
• You must be traveling between locations where you can legally possess the firearm
  

Frequently Asked Questions

What does constitutional carry mean in Tennessee in 2025?

Constitutional carry in Tennessee means most adults 21+ can carry handguns, open or concealed, without a permit. Military members may carry at 18. But there are limits: no long guns, and certain places remain off-limits (schools, bars, etc.).

Do I need a permit if we have constitutional carry?

No, but permits offer benefits like reciprocity.

• Enhanced Handgun Permit = Broad recognition across states
  
• Concealed Permit = Easier to get, fewer states accept it
  

Frequent travelers should consider getting a permit.

Where am I not allowed to carry in Tennessee?

You can't carry:

• In federal buildings
  
• At schools or universities
  
• Government meetings
  
• In airport-secured areas
  
• Mental health facilities
  
• Places serving alcohol (if you’re drinking)
  
• On private property with “no guns” signs
  

Violations can lead to criminal charges.

How do I legally transport firearms in Tennessee?

• In-state: loaded/unloaded in private vehicle, no permit required
  
• Interstate: follow FOPA rules—unloaded, locked, and inaccessible
  

What should I know about Tennessee’s self-defense laws?

• Castle Doctrine: No duty to retreat at home, in car, or at work
  
• Stand Your Ground: No retreat needed anywhere you’re legally present
  

Actions must still be reasonable. Get a lawyer immediately if you use your weapon in self-defense.

Have there been any recent changes to Tennessee gun laws?

Yes. Notable 2025 updates:

• More protection for gun storage in vehicles
  
• Revised rules for state parks and emergencies
  
• Harsher penalties for gun theft and trafficking
  
• Continued state pushback against federal gun control laws
  

Final Thoughts on Responsible Gun Ownership in Tennessee

Gun ownership comes with rights and responsibilities. In 2025, Tennessee continues to lean pro-Second Amendment, but that doesn't mean it's a free-for-all. Knowing where you can carry, how to store firearms, and what the laws say about defending yourself are critical to staying protected and legal.

Always assume the law could change with little notice. Legislative updates, court decisions, and federal actions can impact your rights as a gun owner overnight.

Stay up to date, seek legal guidance if you’re unsure, and above all, respect the power and responsibility that comes with carrying a firearm.

If you have questions about your specific situation or need legal representation related to firearms in Tennessee, contact the attorneys at McNally Law today. We're here to help.