Your policy number typically lives at the top of your ID card or insurance document. It’s unique to you and it proves that you have coverage.
Police officers and insurance agents use this card to verify your coverage. You might need to find this quickly if you get pulled over or find yourself in an accident. Here’s what you need to know about policy numbers and when you might need yours.
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Finding your policy number is easy. Locate your card or billing statement and look for a number at the top that’s between nine and 13 digits long. It may start with a letter in some states. That’s your policy number.
What is a policy number?
A policy number is like an ID number. It’s a coded way of referring to you and the car insurance policy you’ve purchased.
The policy number on an insurance card is shorthand. Usually, ID cards don’t list the full complexities of your coverage, like the types or amounts. Instead, the number is a placeholder for all the different coverage levels you’ve purchased.
You will have different policy numbers for your car insurance, home insurance, etc.—even if you purchase them through the same company.
There’s no need to memorize your policy number.
You will need to keep your ID card in the vehicle as proof of insurance
whenever you drive. The number on the card can be verified by police to confirm you’re covered. If you lose it, just contact your provider and they can help you locate your ID number or re-issue an ID card. MORE: The penalties for using fake proof of insurance
Situations where you’ll need your car insurance policy number
You’ll need to give proof of insurance at the DMV, to a police officer, to a lender, and if you’re in a car accident.
Typically, the policy number on your card is all someone needs to verify coverage and take the next steps.
By showing your ID card, you’re proving that you have car insurance. Put your proof of insurance somewhere easy to find. This will make an accident less stressful.
Situations where you might need someone else’s car insurance policy number
If you’re in an accident
, make sure you get the other party’s policy number and insurance provider. You should exchange insurance information with everyone involved, no matter who caused the accident or how serious it was. Take photos of their documentation and double-check to make sure it’s not blurry.
Without this information, you could be on the hook for out-of-pocket repair costs and medical expenses that would have otherwise been covered by another driver’s policy.
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What information does my insurance card contain?
Your card contains insurance information that is unique to you and your policy.
The insured person’s name and address (or people, if multiple drivers are insured)
The insurance company name
The vehicle’s year and make
Effective dates (usually a six or 12-month term)
Your card doesn’t usually list the types of coverage or amounts of your policy. You’ll have to call your agent or look in your records to confirm this information.
You are required to keep proof of insurance on hand in the vehicle at all times. It’s a legal requirement (unless you’re in New Hampshire).
Where do I get proof of insurance?
Once you buy a policy, your insurance company will automatically send you a physical document as proof.
You’ll receive a piece of paper for your files along with a small ID card (or two) to carry in your wallet or glove box.
You can often get digital proof of insurance if you download the company’s app or log onto their website. Not all states accept digital proof of insurance, so make sure it’s permitted where you live.
MORE: Is it legal to show proof of car insurance on your phone?
What else can I use as proof of insurance?
There are no legal substitutes to physical or digital insurance cards.
Not even a receipt or a declaration document will suffice. You need to carry official proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times—no substitutes!
That being said, it’s not too difficult to replace a card if you lose it. Just don’t drive until you can get your new copy. Or get Jerry
and have a digital copy that never needs replacing or waiting around. How to find cheap car insurance
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You could find a cheaper policy and get a digital ID card to prove it. Did we mention that the average Jerry user saves $800+ a year on car insurance? Try Jerry for free today.
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