When you sign up for a Nationwide auto insurance policy, you’ll gain access to a digital insurance card that counts as proof of insurance
. A physical card will also be sent via mail, or you can request a copy by phone, mobile app, or online account. Most states require drivers to purchase at least a minimum amount of liability insurance
coverage—meaning you’ll need to carry proof of that insurance when you’re on the road. But what qualifies as proof of car insurance
? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at all the ways you can receive proof of financial responsibility coverage through Nationwide. What counts as proof of insurance?
Once you purchase a new car insurance policy, Nationwide will send you an insurance identification card, along with an insurance declaration page
and an optional binder letter. These vital documents not only include the name and address of the insurance company but also your policy number
and the effective and expiration dates of your policy. Even though these three documents count as proof of insurance from Nationwide, they are used for various circumstances. While a binder letter is usually required for court and an insurance declaration page details your coverage information, you’ll need to show your insurance identification card to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or law enforcement officers. That means you’ll need an insurance ID card anytime you’re behind the wheel.
And thanks to the wonders of modern technology, drivers can access their insurance ID card without having to wait for a physical copy to be delivered. That’s right—you can access your ID card as electronic proof of insurance through your Nationwide mobile app.
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How to obtain proof of insurance from Nationwide
Need to get a copy of your insurance identification card from Nationwide? Here’s how:
Without logging into your Nationwide account, you can enter your phone number or policy number, along with your zip code and date of birth on this online form
. Then simply tap “Continue” and select your vehicle to access your ID card. If you’re logged into your Nationwide account, select “ID Cards & Documents,” then choose “View/Print ID Card” under “Auto Policy Details.” From there, you can easily view, save, share, or print a copy of your Nationwide insurance identification card in case you lose your physical card.
If you prefer speaking with a Nationwide agent, simply call 1-888-891-0271 to request that a physical copy of your insurance ID card is sent to you by mail.
If you’ve downloaded the Nationwide mobile app, you can access your digital insurance ID card 24/7. Just go to the “Policies” tab and select “View ID Cards.” You can also save your ID card for viewing outside the mobile app by going to the “Policies” tab, selecting “ID Cards,” and tapping on the star icon on the right corner of any insurance policy that you wish to save for offline viewing.
But keep in mind that New Mexico
does not accept digital proof of insurance. And in Massachusetts
—due to the state’s vehicle registration process—it’s up to the police’s discretion whether or not to accept digital insurance ID cards. When do you need to show proof of insurance?
Nearly every state, except Massachusetts and New Hampshire
, requires drivers to carry proof of financial responsibility to legally hit the road. You’ll need to demonstrate proof of insurance in the form of an ID card to the following: Law enforcement: If the police pull you over, they will ask for your proof of insurance, along with your vehicle registration
and driver’s license. If you’re not carrying these documents with you, you may face hefty fines and increased insurance rates. The DMV: If it’s time to renew your license plates, the DMV will need proof of insurance in addition to your other documents.
Lenders: When applying for a car loan
, your potential lender will check to see if you have car insurance. Employers: If you have a driving-related job, your employer might require proof of personal liability insurance to go along with their commercial car insurance
.
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