Is digital proof of insurance or driver’s license OK if you get pulled over in California?

Angela Rodriguez
·2 min read
109

It happens. We all forget things — at least sometimes — as we run out the door in the morning.

But what if you forgot your wallet, which contains your driver’s license and car insurance? And, to your luck, the blue and red lights have just appeared in your rear view mirror.

We spoke with the California Department of Motor Vehicles to see what would happen if you were pulled over and failed to show physical proof of your license, registration and insurance.

Here’s what officials told us:

Driving without your physical license

According to California Vehicle Code 12500, a person cannot drive a vehicle unless the person holds a valid driver’s license.

However, with so much being digitized — even license plates — is it acceptable to present a picture of your license?

Anita Gore, spokesperson for the DMV, said physical versions of your driver’s license and vehicle registration card are required when asked by an officer.

“An individual who has a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration card, but does not have them at the time they are requested by a law enforcement officer, could be charged with an infraction or misdemeanor,” Gore said.

But the DMV has taken note of people often carrying photocopies of important documents on their phones.

“The DMV is currently in the beginning stages of a mobile driver’s license,” Gore said. “It will be available in a DMV wallet on your smart phone.”

Gore said it will work as a companion identification to your physical card, so you can present that to an officer.

“The DMV hopes to roll out the mobile driver’s license later this year,” Gore said.

Can you present digital proof of insurance?

Yes, you can provide a picture of your vehicle’s insurance information.

California Vehicle Code 16028 states, “The evidence of financial responsibility may be provided using a mobile electronic device.”

What about registration?

According to California Vehicle Code 4462, a driver must present the registration or identification card of a vehicle for examination when an officer asks.

While drivers are currently required to provide physical proof of their vehicle’s registration, Gore said that California drivers might not have to worry about this in the future. She said the department continues to think of possible digital options.

“The DMV is currently evaluating an electronic vehicle registration card, which is a digitized version of the document and can be accessed on a mobile device,” Gore said.

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