In New York you need to insure your vehicle before registering it. When registering a vehicle one of the items you need to bring to the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles is a New York State Insurance Identification Card (FS-20).

The Insurance Identification Card can be a copy or a fax, but the barcode must be readable by a DMV barcode reader. After you buy a vehicle, bring the proof of ownership to an insurance agent or broker authorized to do business in NYS, and get this required insurance card.

The FS-20 must have the same name as the registration application and must have a barcode. The FS-20 must be presented within 45 days of the effective date of the insurance coverage.

For a New York State auto insurance follow this link.