some say it’s fine, others say the cop wanted the physical card
Here’s the thing—by law, SD does accept digital proof. But in reality, I’ve had an officer in Hot Springs look at my phone like it was a spaceship. Ended up digging through my glovebox for the paper card anyway. Maybe it’s just old habits? I keep both handy, just in case. Wouldn’t risk a ticket over something so minor... especially not while cruising in a ‘68 Charger.
I’ve run into the same thing, actually—law says digital is fine, but I’ve had a trooper in Custer County just shake his head and ask for the paper anyway. Maybe it’s a generational thing, or maybe some departments just haven’t caught up yet. Out of curiosity, has anyone actually gotten a ticket for only showing digital proof? I’ve only heard stories, never seen it firsthand.
I get what you’re saying. I’ve heard the law says digital is fine, but it feels like some officers just don’t trust it yet. I haven’t personally gotten a ticket for showing my phone, but I always keep a paper copy in my glove box just in case. It’s annoying to have to double up, but honestly, I’d rather not risk the hassle if someone’s having a bad day or just doesn’t want to deal with tech. You’re not alone—seems like we’re all stuck in this weird transition phase.
I always keep a paper copy in my glove box just in case. It’s annoying to have to double up, but honestly, I’d rather not risk the hassle if someone’s having a bad day or just doesn’t want to deal with tech.
- Same here, I keep both. Not worth the risk, especially since my rates are already sky-high.
- Honestly, I’ve had an officer once say he “preferred” paper, even though the law says digital’s fine. Didn’t want to argue and make things worse.
- Anyone know if there’s a way to get a discount for going paperless with insurance? Or is that just wishful thinking...
- Feels like we’re stuck paying for both convenience and peace of mind. Has anyone actually gotten a ticket for only having digital in SD?
- I keep a paper copy in my glove box too, right next to the registration. Feels old-school, but I’ve had enough “just in case” moments over the years to make it worth it.
- About that paperless discount—my insurance agent told me you only get a discount for going paperless with your *statements* and bills, not your actual proof of insurance. So, yeah, wishful thinking if you’re hoping to save money just by showing digital at a traffic stop. Would be nice if they tossed us a bone for saving them postage, but nope.
- I’ve never heard of anyone in South Dakota actually getting ticketed for just having digital proof, but I’ve definitely had a couple officers give me side-eye about it. One guy even asked if I could “print it out next time.” Not sure if he was just being grumpy or what, but I didn’t push it. Law says digital’s fine, but sometimes it feels like the law and reality don’t always match up.
- Honestly, it’s kind of wild that we’re still dealing with this in 2024. You’d think by now everyone would be on board with digital. But then again, my ‘68 Charger doesn’t even have a USB port, so maybe I’m part of the problem...
- For peace of mind, I just keep both. It’s not like a printout takes up much space, and it’s one less thing to stress about if I get pulled over on some back road where cell service is spotty. Not saying it’s fair, but it’s easier than arguing with someone who’s already having a rough day.
- If anyone actually *has* gotten a ticket for digital-only in SD, I’d be curious to hear about it. But from what I’ve seen, as long as you can show proof—even on your phone—you’re probably fine. Just depends on who you run into, I guess.