Rhode Island Duty to Inform: Police Stops While Carrying

Duty to Inform Law Enforcement

Rhode Island does not have a statutory duty to proactively inform law enforcement that you are carrying a concealed firearm.

Unlike some states that require permit holders to immediately volunteer their carry status during any law enforcement encounter, Rhode Island law does not impose this obligation.

What Is Required

• Carry your permit: Permit holders must have their concealed carry permit on their person while carrying (R.I.G.L. § 11-47-11 for local permits; R.I.G.L. § 11-47-18 for Attorney General permits).
• Present upon request: If asked by a law enforcement officer, you must present your permit. Failure to produce a valid permit when requested could result in criminal charges for carrying without authorization under R.I.G.L. § 11-47-8.

Practical Guidance

While there is no legal duty to volunteer your carry status, many firearms law practitioners recommend:

• Keeping your hands visible during any law enforcement encounter
• Calmly informing the officer if you are carrying, especially during traffic stops, as a matter of safety and courtesy
• Having your permit readily accessible alongside your identification

Key Statutes

Important Notes

• Rhode Island has a dual permitting system: permits issued by the Attorney General (R.I.G.L. § 11-47-18) and licenses issued by local authorities (R.I.G.L. § 11-47-11). The duty-to-inform analysis applies equally to holders of either type.
• Rhode Island's permitting scheme was confirmed as constitutional and unimpacted by the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen, per Attorney General guidance issued July 19, 2022.
• For permit-related questions, contact the Attorney General's office at CCWpermits@riag.ri.gov.