Shelby County Sheriff's Office

When Tennessee's permitless carry law took effect July 1, the Sheriff's Office recognized a critical gap: no training requirement came with the new law. To fill that void, they launched free handgun safety classes for any Shelby County resident who wants to carry responsibly.

Each three-hour class covers the fundamentals that matter:

• •Safe and proper weapons handling techniques
• •Recommended ways to carry and secure your handgun
• •Tennessee firearms laws—specifically when you can and cannot use deadly force
• •How to interact safely with deputy patrol officers

"Their firearms handling mistake could mean serious bodily harm or death of an innocent bystander." — Why the Sheriff's Office prioritizes this training

All instructors are SCSO-certified firearms professionals—the exact same people who train Shelby County deputies. This isn't theoretical. It's the training standard that works for law enforcement.

• •No live fire — Classroom-only training
• •No guns allowed — Firearms prohibited on the Training Academy property
• •Completely free — No cost to attend
• •Registration required — Call or email to sign up
• •Youth welcome — Anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian present
• •Door screening — All attendees screened upon arrival

SCSO Training Academy 993 Dovecrest Road, Memphis, TN

To Register: - Phone/Text: 901-562-3059 - Email: [email protected]

The Sheriff supports the 2nd Amendment and law-abiding citizens' rights to carry. However, the office and Tennessee Sheriff's Association believe common-sense safety training should be required before permitless carry—much like driver's licensing ensures road safety.