I get why people want both, but honestly, I’m just sticking with the digital card for now. My phone’s always on me, and I’d probably lose the paper one anyway. Haven’t run into any issues yet—maybe it’s different in some states? I figure if an officer really needs paper, they can wait a sec while I email it or something. Maybe I’ll regret it someday, but carrying extra stuff just feels like a hassle.
I get where you’re coming from—digital is just easier for most folks. That said, I’ve seen a few situations where someone’s phone died or the app glitched right when they needed proof of insurance. Not super common, but it happens. Out of curiosity, has anyone actually had an officer refuse to accept the digital card? I’ve heard stories but never seen it firsthand. Wonder if it’s more of a rural vs city thing...
Out of curiosity, has anyone actually had an officer refuse to accept the digital card? I’ve heard stories but never seen it firsthand.
I’ve actually had clients in smaller towns mention that some officers still prefer the old paper cards, even though digital’s supposed to be fine in most states now. It’s not super common, but I wouldn’t call it an urban legend either. Personally, I always tell people to keep a paper copy in the glove box just in case—tech is great until it isn’t. Doesn’t hurt to have a backup, especially if you’re traveling out of state or somewhere rural where reception’s iffy.
Never actually had it happen to me, but I totally get the worry. When I first got my insurance, I was all about the app—thought it was super convenient until my phone died on a road trip and I realized I had nothing to show if I got pulled over. Ended up printing out a copy at my cousin’s house just in case.
I’ve heard from a friend that in some rural spots, officers can be a bit old-school about it. Maybe it’s just habit or spotty cell service, who knows. Guess it’s one of those “better safe than sorry” things. Now I keep a paper card tucked behind my registration, just for peace of mind. Doesn’t take up any space and you never know when tech will let you down... especially when you need it most.
Honestly, I had the same worry crop up last winter. I’m all for apps, but after my phone froze up (literally and figuratively) in the middle of nowhere, I realized digital isn’t always foolproof. What I do now is keep a printed card in the glovebox, and—just in case—I take a screenshot of my insurance info when I get the renewal email. That way, if the app’s down or there’s no signal, I can still pull it up from my photos. Might be overkill, but after that little scare, I’m not taking chances.
