Copy or Original LTCF ?

[JEC_PA]

So I've seen a few posts where members have made copies of their LTCF's and was wondering:

1. Is it legal to present a copy?
2. Why do you have a copy?

I just received my LTCF and was curious as to what the majority is.

Thanks.

[ByblosHex]

Upon lawful demand you must present your LTCF. A copy is not legally sufficient.

[DonM55]

Upon lawful demand you must present your LTCF. A copy is not legally sufficient.

18 Pa.C.S.A. § 6122. Proof of license and exception.
(a) General rule.--When carrying a firearm concealed on or
about one's person or in a vehicle, an individual licensed to
carry a firearm shall, upon lawful demand of a law enforcement
officer, produce the license for inspection. Failure to produce
such license either at the time of arrest or at the preliminary
hearing shall create a rebuttable presumption of nonlicensure.

Not sure there's a law requiring you to carry it on you at all times. Anybody know?

[JEC_PA]

I understand the proof part....just wondering why folks have made copies?

[DonM55]

I understand the proof part....just wondering why folks have made copies?

When mine was the old style paper LTCF I always carried a copy in my wallet and the original was filed with other important papers. Since I got the new plastic type I carry it.

[jpg5080]

As far as copies go, the Sheriff's office made me a copy, laminated it, and told me to "carry that one in your wallet and keep the original somewhere safe". That being said, some Sheriff's offices are known for giving out bad info, although I do not believe that is the case here. I can't give you a definitive answer, just sharing my own experience. FWIW

[gnbrotz]

I understand the proof part....just wondering why folks have made copies?

Because it's not uncommon to have whatever you present confiscated without legal basis. You can confiscate copies from me all day long, but until I'm revoked I'm still licensed, and still have the original to prove so at arraignment if that becomes necessary.

It's a calculated risk. One I'm personally willing to take.

[streaker69]

Anyone know if you can actually request real copies from the Sheriff's office? Curious because it would be nice to have an extra copy just to keep in the car, just in case you happened to leave one at home.

[phillykev]

18 Pa.C.S.A. § 6122. Proof of license and exception.
(a) General rule.--When carrying a firearm concealed on or
about one's person or in a vehicle, an individual licensed to
carry a firearm shall, upon lawful demand of a law enforcement
officer, produce the license for inspection. Failure to produce
such license either at the time of arrest or at the preliminary
hearing shall create a rebuttable presumption of nonlicensure.

Not sure there's a law requiring you to carry it on you at all times. Anybody know?

As you pointed out, there's not a law that you must. However, if you can't produce it upon lawful demand, you could be arrested.

[JEC_PA]

Because it's not uncommon to have whatever you present confiscated without legal basis. You can confiscate copies from me all day long, but until I'm revoked I'm still licensed, and still have the original to prove so at arraignment if that becomes necessary.

It's a calculated risk. One I'm personally willing to take.

I could see this as a reason and a valid one, but can you be in legal trouble for not presenting the actual LTCF. Can it be looked up like a DL?