Question: Should I carry my vehicle's title in my vehicle? If so, will a copy suffice? I worry about having the original stolen if someone breaks into my car. Also, what is a vehicle registration? Is it the same as my title? If not, where would I find my registration? Thank you for your help.
Answer: You are not required to keep your title in your vehicle and being the important document it is, I suggest storing it in a safe and secure location. Keeping a "copy" of your title in your vehicle is perfectly acceptable. Some people like to carry it with them to show proof of ownership or help resolve other issues relating to the registration when dealing with law enforcement alongside the road.
The vehicle registration is not the same as your title. Most motor vehicles are registered annually with the exception of some that are under a monthly or prorated system. When you register your vehicle or renew it, you will receive a "Minnesota Motor Vehicle Registration/Cab Card." It will have the information pertaining to the owner, plate number, sticker number, vehicle ID number, make, year, expiration, etc. A person is not required to carry the "cab card" in the vehicle unless it is the required commercial vehicle. However, many people like to keep it in their vehicle with their documents.
During a traffic stop, the two required items you will need to provide law enforcement will be a driver's licenses and proof of auto insurance.
A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow - Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us ).
