Proof of insurance (POI) is documentation that proves that a person has valid insurance with an insurance company.[1]
Where vehicle insurance is compulsory, a driver usually must carry proof of insurance in their automobile or on their person while driving. If a driver is questioned by a law enforcement official, they must provide proof of insurance and often face a penalty if they do not.
The most common form of a POI in the United States was a paper card provided by the insurance company listing policy information and effective dates, though now electronic versions for smartphones are also used.[1] Provisionally proof of insurance may sometimes be issued, such as a "cover note" in the UK, for use while awaiting the full documents for a valid insurance policy.[2]