Documenting the Auto ID Card Legal Requirements for Each State
When rolling out GloveBox’s auto ID card product, it’s important to understand the legal requirements that govern what must be included on an auto insurance ID card. Requirements can vary by state, and there is often confusion—both among agencies and clients—about what’s legally required.
This article documents the state-by-state requirements, highlights the common elements required in nearly every state (with the exception of New York), and explains how our auto ID card product ensures compliance.
Why This Matters
- Misconceptions are common – Some believe ID cards must include more than the law requires.
- State requirements vary – What’s required in California may not match what’s required in Texas.
- Clients will ask – As adoption of digital ID cards grows, agencies need clear answers.
Core Legal Requirements Across Most States (NY Excluded)
While each state may have its own statute, most states require the following elements to appear on an auto insurance ID card:
- Named Insured(s)
- Vehicle Year, Make, Model, VIN
- Policy Number
- Policy Effective Dates
- Carrier Name
- Garaging State
New York has unique requirements and is excluded from this summary.
Additional State-Specific Notes
Some states add further requirements, such as:
- Address of the insured or garaging address
- Type of coverage (personal vs. commercial)
- Carrier NAIC number or contact information
For full compliance, agencies should always consult the state Department of Insurance (DOI) or the carrier’s compliance guidelines.
How GloveBox Meets These Requirements
Our auto ID card product is designed to capture and display all of the core data elements that states require. When creating an ID card, the following inputs are required:
- Garaging State
- Policy Type (Personal or Commercial)
- Carrier
- Policy Number
- Policy Effective Dates
- Vehicle Year, Make, Model, VIN
- Named Insured(s)
- Garaging Address
By requiring these fields, our ID cards meet the legal requirements in nearly all states (excluding New York’s special rules).
Key Takeaway
Auto ID card legal requirements can be confusing, but at their core, most states require a consistent set of policyholder and vehicle details. The GloveBox auto ID card product is built to meet these standards, giving agencies confidence that their clients’ ID cards will stand up to compliance checks across the U.S.
For specific questions about state exceptions or unique requirements, please refer to the state Department of Insurance or your carrier’s compliance team.