[1] The TDOS was established in 1939 by the Tennessee General Assembly to exercise authority over the THP.

[2] Over the decades, the agency has evolved to meet new challenges, such as drug trafficking, the issuance of drivers' licenses, and terrorism.

The current commissioner of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security is Jeff Long, who has been serving since January 2019 after being appointed by Governor Bill Lee.

The Office of Homeland Security was created in April 2003 by an executive order by then-Governor Phil Bredesen in the aftermath of September 11, 2001.

[5] In addition to the above functions, the TDOS has issued handgun permits through the THP since October 1996, assuming the role previously taken by local sheriffs' offices.