GEICO 1st Auto Insurer in N.Y. to Offer Digital ID Cards for Policyholders

November 18, 2015 by

New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced that GEICO has become the first insurer in New York State to complete the certification process through the Department of Motor Vehicles to allow customers to begin using electronic ID cards on their smart phones and electronic devices.

GEICO’s new feature became available to New York customers on the company’s mobile app Tuesday.

At the governor’s direction, the New York DMV amended its regulations in April to allow insurers to issue e-cards to their customers. Certification testing by DMV is required for all carriers that wish to participate to ensure the cards meet technical requirements.

“This new program will both improve efficacy and increase convenience for motorists across New York State,” Cuomo said. “This administration is committed to providing a better customer experience for New Yorkers and I thank GEICO for working with us to keep the needs of our drivers a top priority.”

“This service is not only extremely convenient to customers, but also it helps greatly improve efficiency for both insurance companies and DMV,” said DMV Executive Deputy Commissioner Terri Egan. “Motorists will be able to show proof of insurance quickly and easily, and have an insurance card handy at a moment’s notice. I encourage insurance companies across the state to take advantage of this helpful service, so we can all work together to give New Yorkers the excellent customer service that they deserve.”

New Yorkers must have New York State approved auto liability insurance coverage to register a vehicle. DMV’s amended regulations allow motorists to provide proof of auto liability coverage, or insurance ID cards, in a paper or electronic format. Proof of insurance in an electronic format can now be used for motorists acquiring registrations in DMV offices, providing proof of insurance coverage during a traffic stop, and providing proof of insurance coverage to a judge, justice, or magistrate in response to a summons.