The agency was created to protect the lives, property, and constitutional rights of people in Tennessee.

It investigates traffic accidents involving property damage, personal injury, or death.

The agency works with prosecutors in the prosecution of cases in which the use of drugs or alcohol contributed to accidents causing personal injury or fatalities.

It is the agency responsible for conducting background checks on applicants for permits to carry handguns.

program: The Special Operations Unit of the Tennessee Highway Patrol consists of four specialized sections: The design of the shoulder patch of the THP is unique, as it is the only State Police shoulder patch to identify the admittance of the state into the Union.

Tennessee was the 16th state admitted in the Union; therefore the shoulder patch has a Roman numeral 16 displayed on it.

A silver or gold (Depending on Rank) cord with acorns is worn at the base of the hat.

Since the organization was established, 44 members of the Tennessee Highway Patrol have died in the line of duty.