Proof of insurance (POI) is any type of documentation that a person can provide to another individual proving that the person has valid

insurance Insurance is a means of protection from financial loss in which, in exchange for a fee, a party agrees to compensate another party in the event of a certain loss, damage, or injury. It is a form of risk management, primarily used to hedge ...

with an

insurance company Insurance is a means of protection from financial loss in which, in exchange for a fee, a party agrees to compensate another party in the event of a certain loss, damage, or injury. It is a form of risk management, primarily used to hedge ...

. The most common form of a POI is a paper card provided by the insurance company listing policy information and effective dates. Where

vehicle insurance Vehicle insurance (also known as car insurance, motor insurance, or auto insurance) is insurance for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other road vehicles. Its primary use is to provide financial protection against physical damage or bodily injury ...

is compulsory, many states require that a person carry proof of insurance in their automobiles or on their person while driving. If a person is questioned by a law enforcement official, they must provide proof of insurance. A citation is generally issued if the person cannot provide such documentation.

See also