CCW as a Passenger in a vehicle question

[DoggyManDan]

Hello,

This question may have been asked before, but I went through the thread and couldn't find anything.

I know as a CCW I must present it when being pulled over along with my license, and inform the officer if I'm carrying, keep hands in plain view, turn the dome light on, etc., and then follow all of the officer's instructions. That's all good.

What about if I am a passenger and my wife/friend/coworker gets pulled over? I don't think I'm under any obligation to present my CCW and inform the officer, at least I haven't found any code that says I must, but what 'should' I do? What would you all, as LEO prefer and would it help you if I present the CCW as a passenger? or would it make you more nervous knowing that a passenger is carrying and would you rather not know? Does it help or complicate the situation?

This was a discussion my wife and I were having last night as she was driving and I was carrying and she thought she was about to get pulled over, but the officer behind us sped around us after he turned on his lights, obviously on to another call. But my wife asked me if she was to get pulled over, am I supposed to inform the officer. Good question. So I ask all of you.

Thank you for all you do!!
Dan

[Bert Gamble]

This is a question better answered by your issuing agency, but most likely they will tell you that you are only required to inform the officer if he makes formal contact with you. Formal contact would mean that he has asked you for identification, or is conducting an investigation into something that you may be involved in.

I do not believe that a passenger in a car stopped for speeding will fall into either of those categories.

[Bert Gamble]

Oops. Sorry, I did not notice this was the LEO forum. Mods, feel free to delete if you need to.

[P5Ret]

While it is true that the you are not the one being contacted for the stop, is the risk of an accidental exposure any less? When I was acting as a cover officer on traffic stops I looked at everyone and everything in the car, especially if the contacting officer was talking to the driver. You have to use your own judgement, but a simple traffic stop where you are the passenger, can quickly turn into an official contact of you when and if you print or accidentally expose. Does it hurt anyone if you just happen to say "officer I just want you to be aware that I have a CCW", especially if the officer makes a passenger side approach.

[DoggyManDan]

Thank You!!! Don't get me wrong. I have no problem offering the info as a passenger. I'm more curious as to what would most LEO's prefer. What would put thee LEO at ease.

[micro911]

There is a specific forum regarding concealed carry. They may be able to tell you better. http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/f...play.php?f=179

For me personally, I don't really mind if the person, driver or passenger, is licensed to carry. It can be an extra gun that can help me when I need some help.

[jdubs71]

Keep in mind that even as a passenger in a vehicle stopped by police you are considered detained and under the command of the officer, eventhough you were not driving and did not cause the the reason for the stop. The officer could order you to step out of the vehicle or sit on the curb, whatever he/she feels would be safer. Not saying that would happen, but officers don't like to be surprised if you know what I mean. You're better off telling them right off the get go, especially if your wife or friend knows you're carrying. If asked about weapons in the vehicle they may have that awkward answer with a blank stare making it obvious anyway. I hope this helps.

PS I agree with Micro911, I'm all for it, CCW'ers in my experience have always been very cool, heck sometimes it even brings up interesting conversation about fireams.

[DoggyManDan]

Jdubs71, that's exactly the answer I was looking for. I think that clarifies the issue with me. Thank you very much. And thank you to Bert, Micro and P5 as well. I really appreciate your input. I did look at the CCW forum, but I really wanted an LEO opinion. Thanks again!

[97F1504RAD]

There is a specific forum regarding concealed carry. They may be able to tell you better. http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/f...play.php?f=179

For me personally, I don't really mind if the person, driver or passenger, is licensed to carry. It can be an extra gun that can help me when I need some help.

I just wanted to say thank you as that is very refreshing to hear. Stay safe out there.