Honestly, I’m right there with you on the faded paper cards. I can’t count how many times I’ve dug through the glove box and found my insurance card stuck to a gum wrapper or half-peeled off a receipt. The ink just doesn’t last, especially if you’re like me and don’t swap them out the second the new one comes in the mail. I get why people want to go digital—it’s just easier to keep track of, and you don’t have to worry about it getting destroyed by a spilled juice box or whatever else ends up in the car.
That said, I still keep a paper backup, but here’s what’s worked for me: I print two copies when the new card comes. One goes in a cheap plastic sleeve (like the kind you get for trading cards—seriously, they’re like a buck for a pack), and the other stays at home in a folder with all the car stuff. That way, if the one in the car gets trashed, I’ve got a backup that’s not been through the wringer. It’s not perfect, but it’s saved me from scrambling more than once.
As for the digital thing, yeah, it’s frustrating when the law says it’s fine but you still get side-eye from an officer who wants to see paper. I guess some folks just aren’t used to it yet. I’ve heard stories about people getting hassled, but I think as more people use digital, it’ll get smoother. Until then, I just try to cover my bases—screenshot the card and save it in my phone’s files, not just the app, in case there’s no signal. It’s not ideal, but it beats getting a ticket for “no proof” when you know you’re covered.
It does feel like overkill having both, but I figure a little extra hassle now is better than dealing with fines or headaches later. Not saying it’s right, just that it’s less stress for me in the long run. Maybe someday they’ll ditch the paper altogether... but I’m not holding my breath.
- Totally get the frustration. I drive a couple of high-end cars and even the fancy glove boxes can’t save those flimsy cards from getting trashed.
- I do the digital thing but, like you, I keep a paper copy tucked in a sleeve just in case. It’s overkill, but I’d rather not risk an argument with a cop who’s old-school.
- Honestly, South Dakota rules are all over the place. You’re not crazy for doubling up—it’s just common sense until everyone catches up.
- At least you’re ahead of the curve. Digital is convenient, but backup never hurts... especially if you’ve ever been stuck with a dead phone or weird app glitch.
Title: Insurance Cards in SD—Digital vs Paper, Actually Worth Doubling Up?
- Not sure doubling up is really necessary, honestly. The law in South Dakota *does* allow digital proof, and most officers I’ve dealt with are fine with a phone screen. I get the “old-school cop” worry, but I haven’t actually seen anyone get hassled for showing the app.
- Those paper cards are a pain, yeah. But if you’re worried about them getting wrecked, you can ask your insurer to mail you extras or print a fresh one from your online account whenever. Laminating one isn’t overkill either—it’s just practical.
- The “rules all over the place” thing... not really true. The main thing is just to have proof—how you show it is pretty open now. Unless you’re dealing with a super rural sheriff who’s never seen a smartphone (which... possible, but rare), the digital option covers you.
- Personally, I’d rather risk an eyeroll from an old-timer than keep track of three different copies floating around my car. If your phone’s dead, that’s on you—same as if your license is at home.
- I’ve had people get creative—one guy taped his card inside his sun visor in a Ziploc bag. Not elegant, but it worked.
Bottom line: digital is fine unless you’re super unlucky or paranoid about “what ifs.” The rules here are actually clearer than people think; it’s just that nobody trusts tech until they have to.
I get the convenience of digital, but I’ve actually had my phone die right when I needed it (figures).
True, but a paper backup in the glove box has bailed me out before. Not saying you need three copies, but one extra paper card isn’t much hassle and costs nothing. Just feels safer, especially on long drives when charging spots are hit or miss.If your phone’s dead, that’s on you—same as if your license is at home.
Had the same thing happen on a road trip—phone died, and of course, that’s when I got pulled over. Cop actually thanked me for having the paper card handy. Digital’s great till it isn’t... I just keep both now, feels like cheap insurance.
