I have never been pulled over, live in Florida and have a CCW permit. I have discussed this situation with Florida Highway Patrol and Sheriffs deputies that I know. They have advised me that if I am pulled over, when the officer approaches the window that I should keep my hands on the steering wheel at 10 and 2, greet the officer and inform them that I have a CCW and where the weapon is located and then await instructions from the officer. They have advised me that they would appreciate knowing the information as opposed to finding out any other way.
Makes sense to me. It sure beats not telling them and having them discover it on their own.
Don’t forget to turn on the dome light at night.
“.... keep my hands on the steering wheel at 10 and 2, greet the officer and inform them that I have a CCW and where the weapon is located and then await instructions from the officer.”
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Good advice about keeping your hands visible then tell LE “for your safety and mine, I want you to know I have a weapon”.
100% Spot on correct. Even though FL is not a duty to inform state, nonetheless, I have a standard spiel I go through for checkpoints like the aforementioned sobriety or insurance stops: The cop comes to the window and I put my hands on the wheel and utter the following in a firm and clear voice:
Officer, I'm an NRA Certified Firearms Instructor and I have a Concealed Carry Permit for the State of Florida. I am currently lawfully armed. I'm carrying an XD45 compact, IWB strong side, behind my right hip. Then I wait for further instructions. Never any problems. Cops DO appreciate the spiel, too. Sometimes I get such positive feedback I wind up extending an invitation to join us at a local IDPA match.