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SB 228

Motor Vehicles, Titling and Registration - As enacted, enacts the "Law Enforcement’s Safer Tennessee Electronic Registration (LESTER) Act," which clarifies that law enforcement is required to accept a digital copy of vehicle registration as proof of registration. - Amends TCA Title 38 and Title 55.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Brent Taylor

Tennessee law now requires police to accept digital vehicle registration on smartphones as proof of registration, effective July 2025.

Pub. Ch. 157
#motorvehicles #titlingandregistration
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Bill Summary · SB 228

Legislative bill overview

SB 228, the "Law Enforcement's Safer Tennessee Electronic Registration (LESTER) Act," requires law enforcement officers to accept digital copies of vehicle registration as valid proof of registration during traffic stops and other interactions. The bill amends Tennessee's motor vehicle code (TCA Title 38 and Title 55) to clarify this requirement statewide.

Why is this important

This bill modernizes vehicle registration verification by allowing drivers to show digital proof on smartphones or other devices rather than requiring physical paper registration cards. It reflects the broader shift toward digital documentation and can reduce friction during routine traffic stops while potentially decreasing lost or forgotten registration cards as a reason for citations.

Potential points of contention

  • Digital divide concerns: Not all drivers may have reliable smartphone access, creating potential equity issues for lower-income drivers or those in rural areas with poor connectivity
  • Verification challenges: Officers must have reliable systems and training to authenticate digital documents, raising questions about proper implementation and potential disputes over validity
  • Backup documentation: The bill's effectiveness depends on whether drivers can still carry physical cards and what happens if digital verification fails due to technical issues

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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