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When behind the wheel, you probably know to have your driver’s license and vehicle registration handy, but what about proof of insurance? Since most states require a minimum level of car insurance, having proof of insurance verifies you’re following the law.
Here’s what you need to know about proof of insurance to ensure you have the proper documents on hand when you need them.
What Is Proof of Insurance?
Proof of insurance is documentation from your auto insurer showing that you have a current and valid car insurance policy. A car insurance ID card is a common form of proof of insurance.
With most companies, you have access to a digital car insurance card immediately after you purchase your policy and can receive a printed paper insurance ID card in the mail.
How To Show Proof of Insurance
You can show your proof of insurance on a printed card from your insurance company or an electronic version from your insurance company’s mobile app.
If the police pull you over, it’s acceptable to show an electronic copy of your proof of insurance in 49 states and Washington, D.C. The only state that doesn’t recognize an electronic copy during a traffic stop is New Mexico.
What Information Does Proof of Insurance Provide?
Most insurers will provide some basic information on an insurance ID card. This information can include:
- Insurance company’s name and address.
- Effective date and expiration of your policy.
- Your policy number.
- Insurer’s National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) number.
- Insured driver’s first and last names.
- The insured vehicle’s year, make, model and vehicle identification number (VIN).
Proof of insurance indicates that you’re carrying at least the state-required minimum amount of coverage. The document typically does not state the exact types of coverage (such as collision and comprehensive insurance) or the policy limits.
How To Obtain Proof of Insurance
Your car insurance company will provide proof of insurance after you buy a policy. Depending on the insurer, you may receive your proof of insurance in one or more of the following ways once you purchase your policy:
Why Proof of Insurance is Necessary
Proof of insurance is necessary to show that you have an active car insurance policy with at least the state’s minimum auto insurance requirements.
Providing proof of an active auto insurance policy can be required for a wide variety of reasons. Here are common situations where you may need to show proof of insurance:
What If You Can’t Show Proof of Insurance?
If you cannot provide proof of insurance when law enforcement asks for it, you could face fines or even jail time, depending on the state.
If you have car insurance but didn’t have proof on you at the time, you can usually contest a ticket by mailing a copy of your proof of insurance or showing in court proof that you were insured on the date of the ticket. While the charges could be dismissed, you may have to pay a fine or court fees.
Keep in mind that failure to provide proof of insurance is an entirely different offense than driving an uninsured vehicle. Driving without insurance is a far more serious offense, which can result in paying fines, having your driver’s license suspended, paying license reinstatement fees, paying higher rates for auto insurance or even jail time.
Why Do I Have To Show Proof of Insurance?
To legally drive on public roads in all 50 states, you must show financial responsibility, meaning you have the ability to pay if you cause property damage or injuries in a car accident. Most people show financial responsibility by purchasing liability car insurance.
It’s easy to have proof of insurance on you digitally. In 49 states and Washington, D.C., drivers can provide a digital copy of their insurance card instead of a printed copy. The only state that may not accept electronic proof is New Mexico.
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
In some states, you can be required to have an SR-22 certificate, which is a form filed by an insurer with the state that shows you have the required amount of liability insurance.
Depending on the state, you typically need to get an SR-22 certificate if you:
- Were convicted of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated.
- Have had serious and repeated traffic offenses.
- Had at-fault accidents with no car insurance.
- Have had your license suspended or revoked.
Filing an SR-22 isn’t expensive. It’s typically about $25, depending on your state and insurance company. However, your car insurance rates may increase substantially because of the reason you’re being required to have an SR-22, such as a DUI conviction.
Find the Best Car Insurance Companies
With so many choices for car insurance companies, it can be hard to know where to start to find the right car insurance. We’ve evaluated insurers to find the best car insurance companies, so you don’t have to.
Proof of Insurance Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the proof of insurance show what coverage types I have?
No, the proof of insurance shows that you met your state’s minimum insurance requirements. It won’t show if you have optional coverages such as collision and comprehensive insurance.
Your insurance policy’s declaration page will list the coverage types you purchased. If you can’t find your policy, ask your insurance agent or check to see whether your auto insurer has a mobile app. Many insurer apps offer access to policy documents online.
What does car liability insurance cover?
Car liability insurance is an essential coverage type that pays for injuries and damages you cause to others. For example, if you cause a car accident, your liability insurance will pay for the other driver’s car repairs and medical bills (unless you live in a no-fault insurance state).
Liability insurance also pays for a legal defense in case you’re sued because of an accident. Liability insurance does not pay for damage to your own car. You’ll need collision and comprehensive insurance if you want coverage for problems like car accidents and car theft.
What if I’m required to file an SR-22 form in my state?
If you’re required to file an SR-22 form in your state, talk to your car insurance company. If they don’t offer the service, shop around for cheap SR-22 insurance. There are many companies that will offer high-risk drivers coverage and file the SR-22 form.
If you don’t own a car but need proof of car insurance, such as an SR-22, non-owner car insurance is a good option.
