In a nutshell:longhornmike wrote:Okay , but what if you're not carrying ? And I'm curious as to what is "the law" , not just a recommendation. That being said , I will always inform any officer that I have a CHL.
1) If you are NOT carrying, you are NOT required to show your CHL to an LEO when asked for ID.
2) If you ARE carrying, and you are asked to show your legal ID (TDL, etc.), then you ARE required to present your CHL along with other legal ID, but there is no penalty under the law for failure to do so.
3) If you ARE carrying and you are NOT asked to provide any form of ID, then you are NOT required to present your CHL or inform the officer that you are armed. Also, it is probably better not to volunteer "I have a gun!" Wait for the LEO to ask, and then answer. If they don't ask, let it go.
4) As a matter of common courtesy, it is generally regarded as wise to present BOTH TDL and CHL when an LEO asks for your ID, even when you are not armed. Consider it a pre-emptive defusing.