1. The search function at the top will get you several threads about this very subject.
2. Welcome to OCDO in Fayetteville.
3. My routine: Get in the vehicle, secure the seat belt, start up, and drive away. Nothing special here. I do not remove the gun from the holster. Suggestions will be: a holster jammed between the seats, or seat and console; in a holster attached to the passenger seat; a holster attached to the dash or console; laying on the seat/console/dash; have the sweet thing in the passenger seat hold it on her lap, or have her drive and you hold it on your lap:lol:. If you simply lay it on a surface it stands a chance of becoming a missile during an accident or other unplanned event.
http://www.ncdoj.gov/getdoc/32344299-a2a7-4ae5-99fd-9018262f64ac/2007-NC-Firearms-gun-Laws.aspx
refer to section IIID (thank member Solus for this link)
Enjoy, and we'll see you out and about.