Key Takeaways
- The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) regulates all insurance activities in Ohio under Ohio Revised Code Title 39
- The Superintendent of Insurance is appointed by the Governor with Senate confirmation
- ODI handles licensing, enforcement, consumer complaints, rate review, and market conduct examinations
- Ohio Revised Code Title 39 contains the primary insurance laws and regulations
- Ohio requires fingerprinting through a fingerprint vendor for all insurance license applicants ($72.25 fee)
Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI)
Important: This study guide covers Ohio state-specific Life & Health insurance content only. You should complete the national Life & Health exam preparation first, as it covers the foundational insurance concepts tested on your exam.
The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) is the state agency responsible for regulating the insurance industry in Ohio. The Superintendent of Insurance is appointed by the Governor.
The Superintendent of Insurance
The Superintendent of Insurance is:
- Appointed by the Governor with Senate confirmation
- Serves at the pleasure of the Governor
- Responsible for enforcing Ohio insurance laws
- Authorized to adopt rules, investigate violations, and discipline licensees
Superintendent Powers and Duties
| Power | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Issue, suspend, and revoke producer licenses |
| Rulemaking | Adopt rules interpreting the Insurance Code |
| Enforcement | Investigate and prosecute violations |
| Rate Review | Review and approve insurance rates |
| Consumer Protection | Handle complaints and protect policyholders |
| Market Conduct | Examine insurer business practices |
Ohio Revised Code Title 39
Ohio insurance law is found in the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Title 39:
- Licensing requirements for producers and insurers
- Policy standards and required provisions
- Consumer protections and disclosure requirements
- Prohibited practices and penalties
- Claims handling requirements
Exam Tip: Remember that Ohio insurance law is in Title 39 of the Ohio Revised Code. This is frequently tested.
ODI Organization
ODI operates through several divisions:
- Agent Licensing - Handles producer licensing and examinations
- Life & Health Division - Regulates life and health insurance products
- Market Conduct - Examines insurer practices
- Fraud & Enforcement - Investigates insurance fraud
- Consumer Services - Handles consumer complaints and inquiries
How is the Ohio Superintendent of Insurance selected?
Where is Ohio insurance law primarily found?