TCA 39-17-114
Transportation of illegal aliens
MISDEMEANOR AClass A Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
It is illegal to transport someone into Tennessee for money or profit if you know they entered or stayed in the United States illegally. This applies to people smuggling immigrants for financial gain. You can be fined $1,000 for each person illegally transported (not jail time). This does not apply to common carriers like buses or taxis, and transporting people for religious purposes is a legal defense. ---
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass A Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail11 months 29 days
Maximum Fine$2,500
Penalty SummaryClass A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500
(a) It is an offense for any person for the purpose of commercial advantage or private financial gain to transport or cause to be transported into the state an individual who the person knows or should have known has illegally entered or remained in the United States, as determined by the bureau of immigration and customs enforcement of the United States department of homeland security. (b) (1) This section shall not apply to common carriers. (2) It is a defense to prosecution under this section that the individuals were being transported for religious purposes. (c) A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor punishable only by a fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each person illegally transported. (d) Any moneys received from a violation of this section shall go to the arresting agency or agencies.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR A
TCA Section39-17-114
Max Jail11 months 29 days
Max Fine$2,500