I’ve actually had an officer in a small town look at my phone and just shake his head—he wanted the paper card, period. Luckily I had it tucked away. It’s not always about what’s technically allowed, but what works in the moment. Digital’s great until it isn’t...
That’s interesting—I've run into similar situations at car shows, especially with older officers who just aren’t comfortable with digital proof.
Do you know if South Dakota law actually requires the paper card, or is it just officer preference? I’ve read conflicting things online, and I’d rather not get caught out if I’m driving one of my classics.“It’s not always about what’s technically allowed, but what works in the moment.”
- From what I've read, South Dakota does allow digital proof of insurance (like on your phone) since 2015. It’s in the law, but I get why some officers—especially at car events—might still want to see the paper card.
- If you check SDCL 32-35-119, it says electronic proof is valid. But… “valid” doesn’t always mean “accepted without a fuss,” especially if the person checking isn’t up on the latest rules.
- Personally, I just keep a paper copy in my glove box, even though I have the app. Feels safer, especially if my phone’s dead or there’s no service.
- I’ve heard stories from friends where digital was totally fine, and others where it just slowed things down. Guess it depends who you run into.
- For classics or older cars, I’d double up—paper and digital—just to avoid hassle. Not worth the risk of getting ticketed over something silly.
I wish it was more consistent, but for now, both seems safest.
Had the same debate with myself last year after I got pulled over outside Rapid City. Showed the officer my insurance on my phone—he just stared at it and asked if I had a paper copy “just in case.” I didn’t, and it turned into a ten-minute thing while he “checked with his supervisor.” Got off with a warning, but honestly, it felt like a waste of time.
“valid” doesn’t always mean “accepted without a fuss,” especially if the person checking isn’t up on the latest rules.
That’s exactly it. The law’s one thing, but if the person with the badge isn’t up to speed, you’re the one stuck waiting. I get wanting to go digital (less stuff to lose), but is it really worth the hassle if you run into someone old-school? I just print out the card now and toss it in the glove box. Not worth risking a ticket or—worse—a wasted afternoon because someone doesn’t trust tech.
Anyone else ever had an officer actually refuse the digital proof? Or is it usually just a longer wait?
Never had an officer flat-out refuse my digital insurance, but I’ve definitely gotten the “are you sure this is okay?” look more than once. Last time was in Sioux Falls, and the cop literally squinted at my phone like it was some kind of magic trick. He didn’t say no, but he did ask me to email it to him, which was a first. I ended up standing there in the cold, fumbling with spotty cell service, just to send a PDF I could’ve handed over in two seconds if I’d printed it. Felt pretty ridiculous.
I get why people want to go digital—less clutter, and honestly, who remembers to swap out the card every renewal? But I’m with you: it’s not always worth the gamble. The law might say digital is fine, but if the person on the other side of the window isn’t comfortable with it, you’re the one stuck explaining. And let’s be real, arguing with a cop about what’s “technically legal” is never a fun way to spend your afternoon.
I still keep the digital copy on my phone, but after that Sioux Falls mess, I started tossing the paper card in the glove box again. It’s just easier. Maybe in a few years everyone will be on the same page, but for now, I’d rather avoid the hassle. Not sure if it’s a South Dakota thing or just depends on who you get, but I’m not taking chances.
