Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Practice Exam

A person commits the offense of Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon if they carry what?

1. A gun lying on the passenger's seat

2. An open knife in their pocket

3. A firearm knowingly on or about their person

4. A non-lethal weapon for self-defense

The correct answer is: A firearm knowingly on or about their person

The offense of Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon is defined under Texas law, which specifies the circumstances under which carrying a firearm becomes illegal. When the correct choice states that a person commits this offense by carrying a firearm knowingly on or about their person, it highlights the legal requirement of being aware that the firearm is present and that it should not be carried in ways that violate state laws. In Texas, there are specific licenses and permits required for carrying a firearm. If a person is not licensed or does not adhere to the conditions set forth by the law, carrying a firearm in such a manner would indeed constitute unlawful carrying. This includes scenarios where the firearm is concealed, improperly stored, or carried in restricted locations. The other options presented do not meet the legal criteria for Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon as outlined in Texas law. For instance, carrying a gun lying on the passenger's seat doesn't qualify as carrying the weapon on or about the person's body; an open knife in someone's pocket may be legal under certain circumstances; and a non-lethal weapon typically does not fall under the definition of a firearm in the context of unlawful carrying laws. Thus, the focus on knowingly carrying a firearm provides clarity on both intent and the legal framework surrounding lawful and unlawful