Do I need to have my license on me when I'm driving?

Q: "Is it legal to have your drivers license in a backpack in the trunk of your car while you're driving, or does it have to be on you as you drive?" -- Diana A: "Diana, there is no law that says your license has to be on your person, but if you think about it, it does make sense to have it within your reach. The law says you have to be able to provide that to a law enforcement officer if you're asked to do so. If it's in your trunk and we're on the side of I5, it's a very unsafe situation to have you get out of your car and getting into your backpack. So, we always recommend that it be within your reach or on your person at the time of a stop, and hopefully you'll be safe in doing so." -- Washington State Trooper Julie Judson