Stay Prepared: What Documents Should I Keep in My Car?

Before you hit the road, it’s always best to be prepared for whatever comes your way. That means knowing how to maneuver in various situations, having your vehicle equipped for changing road conditions and mishaps, and having the right documents on hand. 

From a legal standpoint, there are a few key pieces of paperwork you absolutely must have in your vehicle. These documents prove ownership of your car, show you’re legally allowed to be on the road, and can help you handle accidents or traffic stops smoothly. 

So, what documents should you keep in your car? That’s a great question, and knowing the answer can save you a ton of hassle. Let’s take a look.

5 Essential Documents to Always Keep in Your Car

Glove compartments often turn into mini junk drawers stuffed with all sorts of papers we probably don’t need. No matter what else you keep in there, these five documents definitely deserve a spot.

1. Vehicle Registration

If you get pulled over by the police, they’ll likely ask for your license and registration. You should know where to keep your car registration to be prepared for this situation. This document identifies you as the owner and proves your vehicle is legally registered. 

A great spot for it is your glove compartment, where it’s in easy reach. Keep it in a dedicated document holder with a distinct color to make it even easier to find. This way, you can quickly grab it without sifting through other papers.

2. Proof of Insurance 

Next up, proof of insurance. This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s the law. Your insurance card should show your policy number, coverage details, and contact information. Keep it with your registration since you’ll likely need to present both documents to the police for a traffic stop.

Also, consider keeping a digital version of your car insurance and registration. You could store the information as a digital photo or pull it up from an app on your smartphone. This paperless option is more convenient and prevents car thieves from accessing your personal information. Most states allow you to present digital proof to authorities but check with your local DMV to confirm.

3. Owner’s Manual 

If you’re scratching your head about what documents to keep in your car, the owner’s manual is a keeper. At some point, you’ll need to decode a dashboard warning light or know how to change a dead battery. Your car owner’s manual will help you troubleshoot these and many other issues. Keep it conveniently tucked away in your vehicle’s glove compartment or driver’s side door pocket.

4. Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Records

What documents should you keep in your car? Pair your vehicle inspection with maintenance records, and you’ll have a comprehensive vehicle care history. Having these handy inside your car makes diagnosing mechanical issues easier. These records also make selling your car easier and help you maintain your warranty coverage. 

5. Emergency Contact Information 

Having emergency contact information in your car can be a lifesaver. The information should include phone numbers for family or friends and any medical information necessary in an emergency. Store these details in a labeled envelope in your glove box or center console. It ensures that first responders or Good Samaritans can reach your loved ones quickly in case of a collision.

Important Documents You Shouldn’t Keep in Your Car

You know what documents to keep in the car, but there are some you’re better off leaving at home.

• Driver’s License: Some items should never be kept in your vehicle due to the risk of theft and identity fraud. For instance, don’t keep your driver’s license and state ID in the car. Always keep them on you to protect your identity and abide by the law.
• Car Title: As a driver, you may wonder whether you should keep your title in the car. It is important never to do so. The car title proves ownership, and losing it can lead to significant legal issues. Keep this important document at home, in a safe place, to ensure it’s protected.
• Passport: If you’re crossing international borders, you might think leaving your passport in the car is convenient, but again, this puts you at risk for identity theft.   
• Family Documents: Parents of adopted children may carry marriage certificates and custody documents to prove legal guardianship during emergencies. While this is understandable, keeping the originals at home and carrying copies is safer.

Turn to CARSTAR for Top-Tier Auto Body Care 

Always drive with essential documents and trust the professionals at CARSTAR for top-notch auto body repair. We offer paintless dent repair, hail damage repair services, and collision repair that make your car look brand new. Find a location near you, and call us to schedule service with our friendly customer support team.