Can 18 Year Olds Carry Handguns in Tennessee?
In the state of Tennessee, the laws surrounding handgun carrying rights are quite complex. While some individuals may be eligible to carry handguns at the age of 18, others may not. In this article, we will delve into the details of Tennessee’s handgun carrying laws and answer the question: Can 18 year olds carry handguns in Tennessee?
A Brief Overview of Tennessee’s Handgun Laws
Tennessee is a "shall-issue" state, which means that the state has a system in place where the law enforcement agency will issue a permit to an individual who meets the specified requirements. The state also has a "concealed carry" law, which allows individuals to carry handguns concealed on their person.
The Age Requirement for Handgun Carrying in Tennessee
In Tennessee, the minimum age to purchase a handgun is 18 years old. However, to carry a handgun, individuals must be at least 21 years old. This is because the state’s concealed carry law requires individuals to be at least 21 years old to obtain a permit to carry a handgun.
Exceptions to the Age Requirement
There are some exceptions to the age requirement in Tennessee. For example, individuals who are 18 years old and are currently serving in the military, or have been honorably discharged from the military, may be eligible to carry a handgun. Additionally, individuals who are 18 years old and are carrying a handgun for the purpose of hunting or target shooting may not need a permit.
The Permitting Process in Tennessee
To obtain a permit to carry a handgun in Tennessee, individuals must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a resident of Tennessee
- Complete a firearms safety course approved by the Tennessee Department of Safety
- Pass a background check
- Provide proof of identity and residency
The permitting process typically involves the following steps:
- Application Submission: Individuals must submit an application to the local sheriff’s office or police department, along with the required documentation and fee.
- Background Check: The local law enforcement agency will conduct a background check to ensure that the individual is not prohibited from owning or carrying a firearm.
- Firearms Safety Course: Individuals must complete a firearms safety course approved by the Tennessee Department of Safety.
- Waiting Period: After the application is submitted, there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before the permit is issued.
- Permit Issuance: If the individual meets all the requirements, the permit will be issued.
Penalties for Unlawful Handgun Carrying in Tennessee
Individuals who are caught carrying a handgun without a permit, or who violate any of the state’s handgun laws, may be subject to penalties. These penalties can include:
- Fine: A fine of up to $1,000
- Imprisonment: Up to one year in prison
- Community Service: Up to 500 hours of community service
Conclusion
In conclusion, while 18 year olds can purchase a handgun in Tennessee, they are not eligible to carry a handgun without a permit. To carry a handgun in Tennessee, individuals must be at least 21 years old and meet the specified requirements. It is important to note that individuals who are caught carrying a handgun without a permit, or who violate any of the state’s handgun laws, may be subject to penalties.
Table: Summary of Tennessee’s Handgun Laws
| Laws | Applicability | Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age to purchase a handgun | 18 years old | None |
| Minimum age to carry a handgun | 21 years old | Fine, imprisonment, community service |
| Permitting process | Completion of firearms safety course, background check, waiting period | None |
| Penalties for unlawful handgun carrying | Fine, imprisonment, community service |
