I get where you're coming from—no sense overcomplicating it. Still, I always wonder what happens if you’re in an accident out of state and the cop insists on paper, but you only have your phone and a crumpled printout. Maybe I’m just paranoid, but I keep both just in case. Ever had a cop actually reject the digital version?
Never had a cop flat-out reject the digital version, but I’ve definitely gotten a few skeptical looks. I always keep a paper copy tucked in my glove box, just in case—especially when crossing state lines. Some states are cool with digital, others not so much. I’d rather be over-prepared than stuck arguing roadside. Ever run into issues with expired docs or ones that got water-damaged? That’s bitten me before...
I always keep a paper copy tucked in my glove box, just in case—especially when crossing state lines.
Yeah, same here. I’ve had a cop squint at my phone like it was an alien artifact. Honestly, I don’t trust digital-only. Had a coffee spill ruin my old registration once—total mess. Why do these things always happen right before you need them?
I get the hesitation with digital-only. I tried relying on my phone once—battery died right as I needed to show proof. Not ideal. Now I keep a laminated copy in the glove box and a backup in my briefcase, just in case. Ever notice how some states still want the original, not a printout? Makes me wonder if it’s worth carrying both versions, or if that’s just overkill. Anyone else run into issues with luxury car paperwork being extra scrutinized? Sometimes it feels like they’re looking for any excuse to nitpick...
Honestly, I get the urge to double up on paper and digital, but I’ve seen folks get tripped up by “originals only” rules that aren’t always enforced. In my experience, most officers just want something legible and current—laminated or not. The luxury car thing is real, though. Had a client with a classic Porsche, and every time he got pulled over, it was like a mini audit. Sometimes I wonder if it’s the car or just luck of the draw... Either way, I’d say don’t stress too much about carrying both unless you’re crossing state lines a lot.
