Duty To Inform

What is a duty to inform?

If state or local law imposes a duty to inform, you are required to disclose the presence of your firearm upon making contact with law enforcement. There are 12 states, along with the District of Columbia, that require you to inform immediately upon contact with law enforcement and additional 12 states with laws that stipulate you must notify only when asked by law enforcement. Some states have no duty to inform laws at all.

• Although California has no duty to inform law at the state level, there are localities that have duty to inform requirements.
• Maine and North Dakota are hybrids. You have a duty to inform if carrying without a permit in these states. However, not if you are carrying concealed with a permit.
• Tennessee currently has no duty to inform law, however as of January 1, 2020, you will have to notify upon contact.
• You should also be prepared to produce your concealed carry permit to verify you are carrying legally, except in constitutional carry states.
• It is your responsibility to know the duty to inform requirements of the locality in which you reside as well as those through which you travel.