To obtain a handgun license in Tennessee, applicants must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of residency, and a completed application form. Applicants are also required to submit fingerprints and undergo a background check to ensure eligibility. Additional documents may include recent photographs and proof of firearms training or certification.
What Documents Are Required for a Handgun License in Tennessee?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit Documentation | Applicants for an Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit in Tennessee must submit a completed application form, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, valid government-issued photo ID, fingerprints, and proof of completing an approved handgun safety course. Supporting documents also include proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, and payment of the required fees. |
| 2 | Tennessee Real ID Compliance | Applicants for a handgun license in Tennessee must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of residency, and complete the Tennessee Real ID-compliant application form to meet state security standards. Additional documents include fingerprint submission, proof of US citizenship or legal residency, and a certificate of completion from a firearms safety course recognized by Tennessee authorities. |
| 3 | Proof of Handgun Safety Training Certificate | A valid handgun safety training certificate is required to demonstrate completion of an approved firearms safety course, serving as proof of basic handgun handling proficiency. This certificate must be presented along with other identification documents when applying for a handgun license in Tennessee. |
| 4 | DPS-Approved Firearm Qualification Form | The DPS-Approved Firearm Qualification Form is a mandatory document for obtaining a handgun license in Tennessee, certifying that the applicant has successfully completed a firearms safety and proficiency course. This form must be submitted along with other identification and background check documents to comply with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security licensing requirements. |
| 5 | Electronic Fingerprint Submission Receipt | The Electronic Fingerprint Submission Receipt is a mandatory document for obtaining a handgun license in Tennessee, confirming that an applicant's fingerprints have been electronically submitted for a background check. This receipt must be presented along with other required forms such as proof of residency, identification, and completed application to complete the licensing process. |
| 6 | NICS Background Check Waiver | Applicants seeking a handgun license in Tennessee must provide proof of identity, residency, and complete a fingerprint-based NICS Background Check unless they qualify for a NICS Background Check Waiver, which applies to certain law enforcement personnel and retired officers. The waiver exempts these individuals from the mandatory federal background check, streamlining the application process while still requiring submission of a valid government-issued ID and proof of residency. |
| 7 | LEEP (Law Enforcement Employment Paperwork) | Obtaining a handgun license in Tennessee requires submission of the Law Enforcement Employment Paperwork (LEEP), which verifies background checks and relevant law enforcement credentials. LEEP ensures the applicant's eligibility by providing access to detailed criminal history records necessary for license approval. |
| 8 | Photo Affidavit for Permit Issuance | The Photo Affidavit is a crucial document required for a handgun license application in Tennessee, verifying the applicant's identity with a recent, government-issued photo. This affidavit must be completed accurately and submitted along with other documents such as proof of residency, background check authorization, and fingerprint cards to ensure permit issuance compliance. |
| 9 | Permanent Residency Firearm Authorization | Applicants for a handgun license in Tennessee must provide proof of permanent residency, such as a state-issued ID or utility bills, along with a completed application form and government-issued photo identification. Firearm authorization requires submitting fingerprints, completing a background check, and in some cases, proof of firearms training to meet state safety requirements. |
| 10 | AutoRenew Handgun Permit Application | To apply for a handgun license in Tennessee using the AutoRenew Handgun Permit Application, applicants must submit a completed renewal form, a copy of their current handgun permit, proof of Tennessee residency, and a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license. The process may also require a recent fingerprint card and payment of the applicable renewal fee to ensure compliance with state regulations. |
Overview of Handgun License Documents in Tennessee
What documents are required for obtaining a handgun license in Tennessee? Applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency along with a government-issued photo ID. A completed application form and fingerprints are also essential components of the submission process.
Types of Handgun Licenses Available
Obtaining a handgun license in Tennessee requires specific documentation based on the type of license you seek. Understanding the types of handgun licenses available helps ensure you prepare the correct paperwork for your application.
- Handgun Carry Permit - This license allows you to carry a handgun either openly or concealed, requiring proof of residency and a valid government-issued ID.
- Concealed Handgun Carry Permit - Specifically for concealed carry, this permit requires submitting fingerprints, completing a background check, and providing proof of handgun training.
- Non-Resident Handgun Permit - Designed for individuals who live outside Tennessee but wish to carry a handgun in the state, this license involves additional documentation verifying your non-resident status and a background check.
Eligibility and Legal Requirements for Applicants
Applicants seeking a handgun license in Tennessee must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by state law. These criteria include being at least 21 years old and a resident of Tennessee or a qualified non-resident.
Required documents for application include a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of residency, and a completed Tennessee handgun carry permit application form. Applicants must also provide proof of firearms training or complete an approved firearms safety course.
Required Documentation for License Application
To apply for a handgun license in Tennessee, applicants must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or state ID card. Proof of residency is required, which can be demonstrated through utility bills or lease agreements. Additionally, applicants must submit a completed application form along with fingerprints and a recent passport-sized photograph.
Step-by-Step Application Process
| Step | Required Documents | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Proof of Identity | Government-issued Photo ID (e.g., Driver's License, State ID) | Confirm your identity and Tennessee residency with a valid, up-to-date identification card. |
| 2. Application Form | Completed Handgun Carry Permit Application | Fill out the official Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security application form accurately and completely. |
| 3. Proof of Residency | Utility Bill, Lease Agreement, or Property Tax Statement | Submit a document showing your current residential address within Tennessee. |
| 4. Fingerprints | Fingerprint Card or Electronic Fingerprint Submission | Provide fingerprints for a background check, which can be taken at authorized fingerprint service providers. |
| 5. Payment | Applicable Licensing Fees (Check, Money Order, or Credit Card) | Pay the non-refundable application fee as specified by Tennessee state law. |
| 6. Background Check Consent | Signed Authorization Form | Authorize the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to conduct a criminal history check. |
| 7. Optional Safety Course Certificate | Firearms Safety Course Certificate (if applicable) | Present proof of firearms safety training to potentially expedite the application process. |
| 8. Submit Application | All Collected Documents and Forms | Submit your complete application packet in person or via the approved online portal to the Department of Safety. |
| 9. Wait for Processing | Application Tracking Number (if available) | Allow for the standard 60-day processing period during which your background check and application review occur. |
| 10. Receive License | Issued Handgun Carry Permit | Upon approval, you will receive your handgun license by mail or can pick it up in person. |
Fingerprinting and Background Check Procedures
To obtain a handgun license in Tennessee, you must undergo fingerprinting and a thorough background check. These steps ensure your eligibility and verify that you have no disqualifying criminal history.
You will need to visit a designated law enforcement agency for fingerprinting, where your prints are electronically submitted to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. The background check reviews your criminal records, mental health status, and other relevant databases. This process helps maintain public safety by confirming your suitability to carry a handgun.
Fees and Payment Methods
To obtain a handgun license in Tennessee, applicants must submit a completed application form along with the required fees. The standard fee for a handgun carry permit is $100, while renewal fees may vary based on county regulations.
Payments are accepted through various methods, including credit cards, money orders, and checks payable to the Tennessee Department of Safety. Cash payments might not be accepted at all locations, so verifying payment options beforehand is essential.
Verification and Approval Timeline
To obtain a handgun license in Tennessee, you must submit proof of residency, a valid government-issued photo ID, and a completed application form. Verification of your background and eligibility is conducted through the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, which typically takes between 30 to 45 days. Your application is approved only after thorough checks confirm compliance with all legal requirements.
Renewal and Expiration of Handgun Licenses
Renewing a handgun license in Tennessee requires submitting specific documents before the expiration date. It is important to prepare these documents to ensure continuous legal carry privileges.
- Current Handgun License - Present your existing license as proof of prior authorization.
- Renewal Application Form - Complete the official form provided by the Tennessee Department of Safety for renewal processing.
- Valid Identification - Provide government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, to verify your identity.
Your timely submission of these documents ensures compliance with Tennessee handgun license renewal regulations and prevents license expiration issues.
What Documents Are Required for a Handgun License in Tennessee? Infographic
