What Is an Insurance Producer License?

A producer license identifies the lines of insurance the holder may sell, solicit or negotiate, such as life, property or casualty. Check the state record for the particular person or firm rather than relying on the brand name.^1,2

In Wisconsin, that work is called intermediary activity, and brokers, agents, producers, and managing general agents all sit under that label. An optional firm license still does not give the corporation authority to act as an agent.²

The NAIC Producer Licensing Model Act separates a producer license from authority to represent or commit an insurer. It is a model for state legislation; the applicable state law determines the requirements.¹

A state license number is not an NPN. The NPN is a nationwide record key; the license number is the state's own credential.³

Look up the named person or firm, the state, the lines, status and dates, and any appointment that state uses. A producer license is not proof that the brand underwrites the policy.^1,3,2