Travelers without valid permits are prohibited from carrying handguns with 
the "intent to go armed." This condition is defined by the actions of the individual 
and the state of the firearms which he has in his possession.  If the weapons are 
loaded and carried on his person, he is in violation of the law. Thus, vehicle carry of 
all handguns should be limited to unloaded firearms which are in plain view or 
secured in commercial gun cases.  Glove compartment or console box carry is not 
permitted. "Unloaded" refers to handguns that are void of any ammunition in the 
magazines or chambers and have no loaded magazines nearby. Such weapons may 
be situated anywhere in the vehicle except concealed on or about one's person.

            Rifles and shotguns carried in a vehicle must remain unloaded and separate 
from ammunition regardless of whether a person has a carry permit.  Tennessee 
only allows handguns to be carried under the authority of a permit.  Long guns are 
treated the same regardless of a person's permit status.

            Tennessee's preemption statute prevents localities from enacting new laws 
regulating the possession, ownership or transportation of firearms and ammunition. 
Local ordinances passed before 1986 are grandfathered by the law.  But most 
aspects of licensed handgun carry are regulated exclusively by the state.

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