Do I Have to Tell An Officer If I Am Carrying a Firearm in Washington State?

Published on March 13, 2022
Duration: 8:54

In Washington State, there is no legal obligation to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying a firearm. However, it is often considered the 'right thing to do' for safety and can positively influence the interaction. Lying to an officer about carrying a firearm is a gross misdemeanor under RCW 9A.76.175. This information is presented by William Kirk, a criminal defense attorney with over 20 years of experience.

Quick Summary

In Washington State, you are not legally obligated to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying a firearm. However, it is often considered the 'right thing to do' for safety and can positively influence the interaction. Lying to an officer about carrying a firearm is a gross misdemeanor under RCW 9A.76.175.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Do I Have to Tell an Officer?
  2. 02:46Right vs. The Right Thing to Do
  3. 04:37Law Enforcement Information Gathering
  4. 05:37Right to Not Answer vs. Lying
  5. 06:00Other States' Laws Compared
  6. 07:09RCW 9A.76.175 and Gross Misdemeanor
  7. 08:01Conclusion and Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tell a police officer I am carrying a firearm in Washington State?

No, in Washington State, you are not legally obligated to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying a firearm. However, it is often considered the 'right thing to do' for safety and can positively influence the interaction.

What happens if I lie to an officer about carrying a firearm in Washington?

Lying to a public servant about a material statement, such as whether you are carrying a firearm, is a gross misdemeanor in Washington State under RCW 9A.76.175. Law enforcement relies on such statements for safety assessments.

Does law enforcement know if I have a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) in Washington?

Yes, when you are pulled over, dispatch typically runs your license plate and can inform the approaching officer if you have a valid Concealed Pistol License (CPL) and if there are any outstanding warrants.

Is it recommended to tell an officer I am carrying a firearm in Washington?

While not legally required, it is often recommended as the 'right thing to do' for safety. Presenting your driver's license and CPL together and confirming firearm location if asked can foster a cooperative interaction.

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