How to check an insurance license before calling an agent
Every legitimate insurance producer, agent, and agency must hold an active license issued by their state department of insurance. Here is how to verify any license in under two minutes before buying a policy.
The 4-step license verification checklist
Find the producer or NPN number
Licensed agents and agencies display their state license number or National Producer Number (NPN). On InsuranceFinder, this is published directly on each firm card.
Check the Department of Insurance
Visit the official Department of Insurance (DOI) license portal for your state or NAIC's SBS search. Search by license number or firm name.
Confirm lines of authority
Make sure the license explicitly lists the coverage line you need: Property & Casualty (Auto/Home/Business), Life & Health, or Surplus Lines.
Review regulatory actions
Check whether the firm's license status is "Active" and whether any formal disciplinary actions, suspensions, or consent orders have been filed.
Official State License Lookup Portals
Every state maintains a publicly accessible database where consumers can look up any licensed agent, broker, or carrier free of charge:
Find a licensed firm near you
We publish direct telephone numbers, license jurisdictions, and carrier representations so you can verify licenses and call directly.