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The other day, while taxiing out for takoff, rather than go all the way to the end (8500'), I stopped at the 5,000' remaining intersection hold short. Before I could switch to tower, ground chided me saying "well, I guess that you want the intersection takeoff, huh?". Having been based at this particular airport and RARELY having gone to the end, I was surprised. My question...Is there a requirement to ASK for the particular intersection when you call for taxi? I realize that it might be courteous, but is it REQUIRED?

I will check on the regs...but I know particular attention is paid to intersection take-offs. If they have cleared you to the runway, it is assumed that you will go to the departure end. Again, each controller is different and somewhat subjective to each request. Whether or not it is required...well, I'll check the FARs.
Anyone else?
a

Louraue,

In keeping with the standard ATC protocol, your callups should be "Who you're calling, who you are, where you are and what you want to do".
As a courtesy to ATC, you should probably let them know that you wish for an intersection departure. The more information you can give them that pertains to how they do their job, the better the pilot/controller exchange seems to go. When you begin to formulate a radio call in your head before you make the call, ask yourself "How can I, using as few words as possible, tell ATC everyting they'll need to know so that they won't have to ask me for any more information?"

Your question was "Is it required?"

No. It is not required. AIM Section 4-3-10 Intersection Takeoffs is advisory in nature. Subparagraph b covers your situation. Here it is:

a. In order to enhance airport capacities, reduce taxiing distances, minimize departure delays, and provide for more efficient movement of air traffic, controllers may initiate intersection takeoffs as well as approve them when the pilot requests. If for ANY reason a pilot prefers to use a different intersection or the full length of the runway or desires to obtain the distance between the intersection and the runway end, THE PILOT IS EXPECTED TO INFORM ATC ACCORDINGLY.

b. An aircraft is expected to taxi to (but not onto) the end of the assigned runway unless prior approval for an intersection departure is received from ground control.

c. Pilots should state their position on the airport when calling the tower for takeoff from a runway intersection.

EXAMPLE-
Cleveland Tower, Apache Three Seven Two Two Papa, at the intersection of taxiway Oscar and runway two three right, ready for departure.

_________________
Inst: "So how far out so we make our initial call-up?"
Student: "10 miles"
Inst: "OK, let's make that call"
Student: "Airport Traffic, Cessna 172, 3 miles east..."

In FAA speak, does "pilot is expected to" equal "pilot is required to"?

Nope. Think of it this way, when you're "expected" to do something, and you don't...the worst thing that can happen to you is a cranky controller uses a harsh tone.

When you're "required" to do something (also read "must") and you don't, then you can expect to remain in contact with the FAA in ways you probably wish you weren't.

_________________
Inst: "So how far out so we make our initial call-up?"
Student: "10 miles"
Inst: "OK, let's make that call"
Student: "Airport Traffic, Cessna 172, 3 miles east..."