What happens if you have a valid driver's license, but you're not carrying it, and you get into an accident?

I have a California driver's license, and I lost it when my wallet was stolen. I am in the process of having it replaced, but in the meantime, my step-father keeps telling me that if I'm not actually physically carrying my valid driver's license on my person, then I'm not covered by insurance. Is this true?
Additional Details
Yes, I know the police don't like it, and I know I'll get ticketed, and I'll take that chance cause I have to get to and from work. But what I'm more specifically asking about is if my license is lost, but still valid, does that negate my insurance?

jonas

You can be cited for driving without a license, but you generally have some time to provide proof that you are licensed and the charge will be dismissed. The DMV should provide some sort of temporary documentation that you can carry that will satisfy legal standards. To my knowledge your insurance is valid unless you are unlicensed. These issues vary somewhat from state to state. Call your insurance company and the authorities for absolute answers.

fisherwoman

Yes, you can also be ticketed with not being able to show proof of a driver license, it is required to be available if you are pulled over. Your insurance would cover the wreck, only upon verifying you do have a valid license.

Medic 21

Always carry your license but some law enforcment people might give you 24 hours to prove that you have a license as for insurance check with the company.

oklatom

Your license is valid, your insurance is in effect. At worst you will get a "fix it" ticket where you will have to show your license at the cop shop to get the ticket dismissed.

Your status can be checked using your full name, and date of birth.

Sorry, in this case, your step father is wrong.

eddie m

As long as lic is valid u will be cover by the insurance but in Cali that a ticket 12500(a) no Lic in possession

fishing the west

if you can prove you have a valid license and also show that you took all the proper steps when you got it stolen. you should have no problem with your insurence co. you should have a copy of your temp. license when you first aplied. for the mean time keep this with you.

Kiffin # 1

In California, practically anything is possible. I wouldn't doubt for a minute that what step-dad says is true. I wouldn't drive without a valid license as that's asking for a stiff fine, possible jail time (look at Paris Hilton), and/or suspension of driving privileges. God forbid you should have an accident..I'd hate to be there when the police arrive!

Pest

Depends on where you live. Generally the police don't like that.

PeppermintandPopcorn

In most cases, you have up to seven days to provide proof of a valid license.

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