Phone-Friendly: States Allowing Digital Auto Insurance Id Cards

As of 2023, nearly every state in the US allows drivers to show electronic proof of insurance coverage during a traffic stop. The exceptions are New Mexico and, as of 2020, Connecticut and Washington, D.C. However, even in these states, law enforcement officers may sometimes accept electronic proof of insurance. This development has been praised by the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, which notes that it makes sense to allow consumers and insurers to use technology to comply with the law.

States that allow electronic proof of insurance

As of 2023, nearly every US state allows drivers to show electronic proof of insurance coverage during a traffic stop. The exceptions are New Mexico, Connecticut and Washington, D.C.

In 2018, only 25 states allowed electronic proof of insurance via smartphones, with Indiana and Florida being the latest additions. However, by 2020, all 50 states and Washington, D.C., allowed drivers to show proof of insurance on their phones.

The ability to present an electronic ID is not only convenient but also saves time and money. Without it, drivers pulled over without proof of insurance will likely have to go to court to show a judge they're covered, incurring court fees.

While most states require drivers to carry auto insurance, the specific laws and requirements vary. For example, in Massachusetts, vehicle registration certificates include insurance information, so residents don't need a separate insurance card. On the other hand, New Hampshire doesn't require most drivers to carry auto insurance at all, as long as they can prove "financial responsibility" in the event of an accident.

States that don't require proof of insurance

As of October 2022, nearly every state in the US allows drivers to show electronic proof of insurance coverage during a traffic stop. However, there are a few exceptions and variations worth noting:

New Mexico

New Mexico is the only state where law enforcement officers are not required to accept electronic proof of insurance. While they may sometimes accept it, it is a good idea to have a physical card as a backup in this state.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts does not require drivers to show a car insurance card as proof of coverage. Vehicle registration certificates include insurance information, so residents do not need to carry a separate insurance card.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire does not require most drivers to carry auto insurance or electronic ID cards. Instead, drivers must provide "proof of financial responsibility," meaning they can cover the cost of an accident if they cause one.

It is important to note that the information provided here may not be exhaustive, and it is always a good idea to check with your local laws and insurance provider to ensure you are complying with the latest requirements and recommendations.

What to do if you can't show proof of insurance

As of 2023, every US state except New Mexico allows drivers to show electronic proof of insurance during a traffic stop. Massachusetts and New Hampshire are also exceptions, as Massachusetts includes insurance information on vehicle registration certificates, and New Hampshire does not require most drivers to carry auto insurance.

If you are unable to show proof of insurance, you may face a ticket and be required to go to court to demonstrate that you are insured. However, this varies by state, and a failure to provide proof of insurance is not the same as driving without insurance. While a no-insurance conviction can result in a large fine and a suspension of your driver's license and vehicle registration, a failure to provide proof of insurance typically results in a fix-it ticket with little to no impact on insurance rates.

How to get an insurance ID card

An insurance ID card is a form of proof of insurance, which is documentation from your insurer that proves you have an active insurance policy that meets state requirements. This is used when you're pulled over, in an accident, leasing a vehicle, or otherwise required to show proof of insurance.

To obtain an insurance ID card, you can:

• Check with your insurance provider to see if they offer a digital insurance card that can be accessed on a smartphone or tablet via an app or by logging into your account. Most major auto insurers now provide customers with a digital insurance card.
• Check your insurer's website or app to see if you can access your insurance card and coverage information there.
• Call your insurance provider and ask them to send your insurance card to your home, office, car dealership, DMV/BMV, or anywhere else you choose.
• Ask your insurance provider to mail your insurance card to you. However, be aware that choosing this option may cause you to lose your paperless discount.
• Download your insurance provider's app, if available.
• Register for your insurance provider's online services, if you haven't already.
• Print out a copy of your ID card by accessing it online.

It's important to note that while most states allow digital ID cards as valid proof of insurance, it's a good idea to carry a paper copy as well. This is because, in most states, you are required to have an insurance card with you while driving, and if your phone is dead or you don't have service when you're pulled over, you won't be able to show proof of insurance. As of October 2022, New Mexico does not accept digital proof of insurance, so a paper copy is required when driving in that state.

Penalties for being unable to show proof of insurance

As of 2019, all 50 states and Washington, D.C., allow drivers to present digital proof of insurance on their phones. However, it is important to note that penalties for failing to provide proof of insurance during a traffic stop vary across different states. While some states may issue a "fix-it" ticket that does not significantly impact insurance rates, others may impose stricter consequences such as fines, suspension of the driver's license, or vehicle registration.

In most states, being unable to provide proof of insurance during a traffic stop will result in a ticket. Additionally, drivers may be required to appear in court to demonstrate proof of insurance coverage to a judge, which can incur additional court fees and the inconvenience of taking time off work. Therefore, it is advisable to keep a physical copy of your insurance card in your vehicle's glove compartment or utilise the digital insurance card provided by your insurance company through their mobile app.

While the exact penalties for not having proof of insurance vary by state, it is generally a less severe infraction than driving without valid insurance coverage. A no-insurance conviction can lead to substantial fines and the suspension of your driver's license and vehicle registration. Thus, it is crucial to maintain valid insurance for your vehicle and carry proof of insurance at all times when operating a motor vehicle.

It is worth noting that some states, like Massachusetts, do not require drivers to carry a physical insurance card. In such states, vehicle registration certificates include insurance information, eliminating the need for a separate insurance card. Similarly, New Hampshire does not mandate auto insurance for most drivers, so electronic proof of insurance is not necessary.

To avoid penalties and ensure compliance with the law, it is recommended to download your insurance provider's mobile app, which typically offers a digital insurance card. Additionally, it is advisable to verify with your insurance company and familiarise yourself with the specific laws and requirements of your state regarding proof of insurance.

Frequently asked questions