Before you hit the road, it's important to be prepared for anything that may come your way. This means knowing how to handle different situations, ensuring your vehicle is ready for any road conditions or accidents, and having the proper documents with you.

From a legal perspective, there are a few essential documents that you must always have in your car. These papers prove your ownership of the vehicle, verify that you're legally allowed to drive, and help you manage any accidents or traffic stops smoothly.

So, what documents should you have in your car? Great question—having the right papers can save you a lot of stress. Let’s take a look.

5 Essential Documents to Keep in Your Car

Glove compartments often end up as catch-all spots for random papers, but there are five key documents that should always be easy to find in your car.

1. Vehicle Registration

If you get pulled over, the police will likely ask for your license and registration. Make sure you know where your registration is so you can easily present it. This document proves you're the owner of the vehicle and that it's legally registered.

The glove compartment is a convenient place to store your registration. Keep it in a clearly marked holder to make it easier to locate when needed.

2. Proof of Insurance

Proof of insurance isn’t optional—it’s required by law. Your insurance card should include your policy number, coverage details, and contact info. Keep this along with your registration, as you may need to show both documents during a traffic stop.

You might also want to keep a digital version of your insurance card and registration. Many states allow digital proof, which can be accessed from your phone, making it more convenient and secure than carrying paper documents.

3. Owner’s Manual

The owner’s manual may not be top of mind, but it’s a crucial document to keep in your car. Whether you need to understand a dashboard warning light or troubleshoot a dead battery, the manual can help you address various issues. Store it in your glove compartment or driver’s side door pocket for easy access.

4. Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Records

Keep your vehicle inspection and maintenance records in the car to track your vehicle’s condition and ensure you're up-to-date with inspections. These records can be helpful for diagnosing mechanical problems, reselling your car, or keeping your warranty intact.

5. Emergency Contact Information

In case of an emergency, having contact information for family members, friends, or medical details on hand can be lifesaving. Store these in a labeled envelope in your glove box or center console, so first responders or good Samaritans can quickly reach your loved ones if needed.

Important Documents You Should NOT Keep in Your Car

While there are essential documents to carry with you, there are some you should always leave at home to avoid the risk of theft or identity fraud.

• Driver’s License: Always keep your driver’s license and state ID on you. Don’t leave them in your vehicle, as doing so puts you at risk of identity theft.

• Car Title: Your car title proves ownership, so it’s important to keep it safe at home. Losing it could lead to serious legal issues.

• Passport: While convenient for international travel, leaving your passport in your car exposes you to the risk of theft and identity theft. Always carry it with you when needed.

• Family Documents: If you carry documents like marriage certificates or custody papers, keep copies in your car rather than the originals. Store the originals in a safe place at home to protect them from theft or loss.

Got questions? Ask us: https://www.wellandcarstar.ca/ask-welland-professional/