Tennessee Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What is the penalty for illegally carrying a handgun in Tennessee?

1. A warning for the first offense

2. Confiscation of the handgun

3. A fine

4. A felony charge

The correct answer is: A felony charge

In Tennessee, illegally carrying a handgun can result in serious consequences. Specifically, it can lead to a felony charge which is significant because felonies carry more severe penalties compared to misdemeanors. A felony charge may result in imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent mark on one's criminal record, which can impact future employment and other rights. The other options, such as receiving a merely a warning, confiscation of the handgun, or a fine, do not reflect the gravity of the offense as prescribed under Tennessee law. While there can be instances of confiscation or lesser consequences under specific circumstances or for lesser offenses, the most accurate portrayal of the penalty for illegal carrying of a handgun aligns with the serious nature of a felony charge. This emphasizes the importance of understanding and adhering to gun laws to avoid severe legal repercussions.