9 of the 10 states reviewed here expressly allow digital proof. Carry the insurer-issued document offline and a paper backup; New Mexico remains unconfirmed.
Paper or phone: the states reviewed
Reviewed 2026-09-08. This table concerns presenting evidence of insurance during road use. Vehicle registration, immigration and customs procedures have separate requirements. “Unconfirmed” does not mean a legal prohibition.
| State | Digital proof | What to check / official source |
|---|---|---|
| California | Yes | A legible, current document; displaying it does not authorize access to other phone content. California Vehicle Code §16028 |
| Texas | Yes | The image must contain the required insurer proof-of-coverage information. Texas Transportation Code §601.053 |
| Arizona | Yes | Current evidence may be displayed on a wireless device in the vehicle. Arizona Revised Statutes §28-4135(B) |
| New Mexico | Not confirmed | Carry printed proof and confirm with MVD before relying only on your phone. New Mexico MVD · Insurance |
| Florida | Yes | The prescribed electronic format is accepted; the document must establish the required coverage. Florida Statutes §316.646 |
| Nevada | Yes | DMV confirms printed cards or mobile devices for traffic stops. Nevada DMV · Electronic Evidence of Insurance |
| Illinois | Yes | The image must meet the insurance card content requirements. 625 ILCS 5/7-602 |
| Georgia | Yes | Distinguish roadside evidence from local registration and its GEICS verification. Georgia General Assembly · Act 185, HB254 (2013) |
| Colorado | Yes | Mobile evidence is provided for; a phone does not replace an active policy. Colorado Revised Statutes §42-4-1409 |
| New York | Yes | DMV distinguishes proof from registration filings; visiting vehicles must also meet financial responsibility rules. New York DMV · Auto Liability Insurance |
For a Mexican-plated vehicle
Ask your insurer for proof that corresponds to your USA policy, vehicle and travel dates. A Mexican domestic policy document alone does not establish USA coverage. The fact that a state accepts a phone screen does not certify a particular insurer, policy or limit.
Prepare it before reaching the border
- Download the actual insurance certificate or identification card, not just the purchase email.
- Open it in airplane mode. Check the VIN, insured dates, territory, insurer and policy number.
- Keep a readable paper copy and save claims contacts separately.
- Stop safely before reaching for documents. Show the proof requested; follow the applicable procedure.
Driving farther or moving to the USA?
Check every state on the route, not just your entry point. Residency, employment, commercial use and vehicle registration can change the insurance you need. Ask an agent to review those facts before buying a visitor policy.
USA routes and insurance · Quote US liability for Mexican plates
California · Texas · Arizona · Florida · Nevada · Illinois · Georgia · Colorado · New York