N.Y. DMV’s New Rule Allows Proof of Auto Insurance in Electronic Format

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles recently implemented a new regulation that allows motorists to show proof of auto insurance in either the paper or electronic format. The regulation went into effect on April 29, a New York State DMV spokesperson said.

The DMV issued a guidance noting that recent changes to the DMV Commissioner Regulations, Part 32, now allows New York State motorists to provide proof of auto liability coverage (Insurance ID Cards) in a paper or electronic format. Proof of insurance is still required to be produced whenever a vehicle is operated.

The DMV said proof of insurance in an electronic format can now be used for New York State motorists when: acquiring registrations in DMV offices; providing proof of insurance coverage during a traffic stop; and providing proof of insurance coverage to a judge/justice/magistrate in response to a summons.

The DMV noted that certification testing is required for all insurance companies who wish to participate. The DMV issued the following specifications:

• Information regarding insurance company testing and certification of proof in an electronic format must be obtained from dmv.sm.iiesmail@dmv.ny.gov.
• Proof in an electronic format must meet the technical requirements set forth in Commissioner Rules & Regulations, Part 32, that are applicable to paper insurance ID cards (except as to those provisions which by their nature can have no application).
• Proof in an electronic format must be capable of being displayed on a portable electronic device (as defined in paragraph (a) of subdivision two of section 1225-d of the Vehicle and Traffic Law).
• Insurance companies may provide proof of auto liability coverage in a paper or electronic format.
• If proof in an electronic format is provided, printed insurance ID cards may be delivered to the policyholder.
• Insurance companies that do provide proof in an electronic format must have approval from the named insured.
• Proof in an electronic format must be legible and able to be scanned by a 2D Bar code scanner for registration purposes.
• Electronic proof cannot be used on the following: temporary insurance ID cards; entities that are self-insured; and fleet, dealer or transporter transactions.

Topics New York Auto Legislation