Yeah, it’s nuts how picky they get. I’ve had a cop in Cranston actually refuse my digital card and made me dig out the paper one from under my seat—felt like I was on a scavenger hunt. My advice? Keep the original in a ziplock bag in your glovebox, just in case. It’s annoying, but cheaper than risking a fine or court fee. Rhode Island really needs to get with the times...
Honestly, it’s wild how old-school some of these rules are. I’ve got a stack of paperwork in my glovebox just to keep up—feels like overkill, but I’d rather not risk it with the car I’m driving. Once had an officer look at my laminated card like I was trying to pull a fast one... Guess we’re all stuck playing by their book for now. At least ziplocks are cheap, right?
Once had an officer look at my laminated card like I was trying to pull a fast one...
That’s wild—I just got my first insurance policy and they gave me this fancy digital card, but I’m honestly nervous about not having a paper backup. Does anyone actually trust the digital versions, or is it just asking for trouble with some cops?
I get where you’re coming from. I’ve had a few run-ins where the officer seemed a bit skeptical about anything that wasn’t the classic paper card. One time, I handed over my phone with the digital proof and the guy just stared at it for a good minute, like he was waiting for it to morph into something else. But honestly, more and more states are recognizing digital insurance cards as legit. I’ve even seen some officers prefer it—less paperwork for everyone.
Still, I always keep a paper copy in the glove box, just in case. Not because I don’t trust the digital version, but because you never know when your phone might die or you’re in a spot with no service. It’s just one less thing to worry about if you’re already dealing with a stressful situation like a traffic stop.
I wouldn’t say you’re asking for trouble by using the digital card, but having a backup never hurts. Some officers are totally up to speed, others… not so much. It’s a bit like showing up to a fancy restaurant in sneakers—sometimes nobody cares, sometimes you get the side-eye.
If it helps, I’ve never actually had an issue where the digital card wasn’t accepted, but I’ve definitely gotten a few raised eyebrows. At the end of the day, as long as your info is valid and up to date, you’re covered. Just keep that backup handy for peace of mind.
Yeah, I’m with you on the backup paper copy. I’ve had officers act like my phone was some kind of magic trick—one even asked if I could “print it out real quick.” Not always practical, right? Honestly, I don’t totally trust the digital thing either. Phones die, apps crash, and sometimes the officer just isn’t having it. I keep both versions handy, just to avoid the headache. It’s weird how something so basic can still be a toss-up depending on who you get.
