If you’re a concealed carrier, it’s likely you’ll face a traffic stop at some point. Knowing what to do — both legally and practically — is critical. Some states require you to disclose you’re armed immediately, while others only require it if asked. Understanding how duty to inform states handle these encounters can help keep the interaction smooth, safe and compliant.
Here’s what you need to know about duty to inform laws, what to expect during a stop and how to handle the situation confidently.
What Are Duty to Inform States?
“Duty to inform” means that you must proactively tell the police you’re carrying a firearm during an official encounter — usually as soon as the officer approaches your window. Not all states require this, but in those that do, silence could cost you more than a warning.
States Where You Must Inform Law Enforcement
The following states have duty to inform laws that require concealed carriers to notify law enforcement they are armed, typically at the first point of contact during a stop:
- Alaska
- Arkansas
- California* (some counties)
- Washington, D.C.
- Hawaii
- Louisiana
- Maine (if carrying without a permit)
- Michigan
- Nebraska
- North Carolina
- North Dakota (if carrying without a permit)
- Texas
Failing to notify in these states may result in citations, permit suspension or even criminal charges.
States Where You Only Inform If Asked by Police
These states only require you to disclose your concealed carry status if the officer specifically asks:
- Arizona
- Florida
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- New York
- Oklahoma
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Even if you’re not legally required to disclose, consider doing so. Many responsibly armed Americans choose to inform as a courtesy, which can lower tension and show a cooperative attitude.
Do Cops Know If You Have a Concealed Carry Permit?
A common belief is that officers know who’s carrying legally because your concealed carry permit is tied to your license or registration. This is only true in some states.
In many others, permit data is stored in separate databases, meaning the officer may not know you’re armed unless you tell him or her. That’s why communicating your status clearly and calmly is so important.
What to Do if You’re Carrying During a Stop
What’s the right way to handle a stop if you’re carrying? It starts well before the flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror. How you carry — your holster setup, firearm placement and concealment method — can all affect how smoothly the interaction goes. If you carry in your vehicle, it’s also important to understand how to store your gun safely in the car to avoid legal issues or access concerns during a stop. If you’re still dialing in your everyday carry setup, take a look at this breakdown of how to carry a gun concealed to ensure you’re set up for safety and accessibility.
Whether or not you’re in a duty to inform state, your interaction should follow this proven protocol to maximize safety and minimize confusion:
Seven Step Traffic Stop Guide
- Pull over safely and completely. Use your turn signals, hazard lights and find a well-lit area if possible.
- Keep your hands visible. Place your hands at the top of the wheel. Passengers should do the same with their hands on the dash or seatbacks.
- Wait for the officer to approach and speak first.
- Disclose your firearm clearly and calmly: “Officer, I have a valid concealed carry permit. I am currently armed. My firearm is on my right hip. My permit is in my wallet on the dash. How would you like me to proceed?”
- Do not move until you are instructed by the officer. Then move slowly and narrate your actions if helpful.
- Comply with all the officer’s instructions. If asked by the officer to exit or temporarily disarm, follow his or her directions without debate.
- Keep documentation. If you feel your rights were violated, note the officer’s badge number and follow up later.
Should You Tell Police You’re Armed? Best Practices for Disclosing
Even in states where disclosure isn’t mandatory, informing law enforcement can often defuse tension. Officers are trained to stay alert, and unknown firearms in a vehicle may put them on edge, especially if discovered mid-stop.
Choosing to disclose upfront — when done respectfully — can increase safety and build trust. Delivering that message clearly and confidently can go a long way toward preventing miscommunication.
Concealed Carry Traffic Stop: Do’s and Don’ts
DO:
- Turn off the engine
- Turn on interior lights at night
- Have license and permit ready — but don’t reach until instructed
- Be courteous and professional
DON’T:
- Reach for anything without permission
- Get out of the vehicle unless told
- Talk about your rights during the stop
- Argue, joke or escalate
Why Your Traffic Stop Conduct Could Save Lives
Police officers face risks in every stop. They don’t know who you are or your intentions. Misunderstandings happen fast. By following the right concealed carry traffic stop protocol, you lower the likelihood of force being used and increase your odds of going home safely.
The more you resist, the more force the officer must use to control the situation.
Know the Law, Stay Prepared
Whether you’re traveling cross-country or carrying daily in your hometown, understanding your state’s concealed carry laws is crucial — including whether you’re required to inform law enforcement during a stop. When in doubt, the safest approach is to disclose calmly and professionally.
Traveling soon? Use the USCCA Reciprocity Map to find out which states recognize your concealed carry permit.
Take the Next Step in Your Carry Confidence
Knowing when to inform law enforcement is just one part of being a responsibly armed citizen. Learn how to carry safely, legally and confidently with the USCCA’s concealed carry classes. Whether you’re new to carrying or refining your skills, our expert-led training can help you make informed, responsible decisions in everyday life.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does “duty to inform” mean?
“Duty to inform” states require concealed carriers to notify law enforcement that they are armed during an official encounter — usually at the very first point of contact. Failing to do so in these states may result in legal penalties, including citations or even criminal charges.
Which states are duty to inform?
As of now, the following 12 states and the District of Columbia have laws requiring concealed carriers to inform law enforcement they are armed at first contact: Alaska, Arkansas, California (county-dependent), Washington, D.C., Hawaii, Louisiana, Maine (if carrying without a permit), Michigan, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota (if carrying without a permit) and Texas.
Do police automatically know if I have a concealed carry permit?
In some states, your concealed carry permit is linked to your driver’s license or registration, which may alert officers during a stop. However, in many states, this information is stored separately, and officers may not know unless you tell them. That’s why clear, respectful disclosure is often the safest approach — even when not required.
The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. Members and the concealed carry community, and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.
