Key Takeaways
- The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) regulates all P&C insurance activities under the Ohio Revised Code
- The Director of Insurance is appointed by the Governor and serves at the Governor's pleasure
- Ohio uses a "file and use" rate system for most P&C lines, allowing rates to be used upon filing
- ODI has authority over licensing, rate review, market conduct, and consumer protection
- Ohio requires background checks for all insurance license applicants
Last updated: January 2026
Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI)
Important: This study guide covers Ohio state-specific Property & Casualty insurance content only. You should complete the national Property & Casualty 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 Property & Casualty insurance industry in Ohio.
The Director of Insurance
The Director of Insurance is:
- Appointed by the Governor
- Serves at the Governor's pleasure (no fixed term)
- Responsible for enforcing the Ohio Revised Code insurance provisions
- Authorized to adopt regulations, review rates, investigate violations, and discipline licensees
Director Powers for P&C Insurance
| Power | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Issue, suspend, and revoke producer licenses |
| Rate Review | File and use system for most P&C rates |
| Market Conduct | Examine insurer business practices |
| Enforcement | Investigate and prosecute violations |
| Consumer Protection | Handle complaints and protect policyholders |
| Rulemaking | Adopt rules interpreting the insurance code |
Ohio Rate Regulation
Ohio uses different rate systems for different lines:
Rate Systems by Line
| Line of Insurance | Rate System |
|---|---|
| Personal Auto | File and use |
| Homeowners | File and use |
| Commercial Lines | File and use |
| Workers' Compensation | BWC sets rates (state monopoly) |
| Title Insurance | ODI regulated |
File and Use
Under Ohio file and use:
- Rates can be used immediately upon filing
- ODI reviews rates after implementation
- Rates must not be excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory
- ODI can disapprove rates after review
Exam Tip: Ohio uses file and use for most P&C lines. Workers' compensation rates are set by the Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC).
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Test Your Knowledge
How is the Ohio Director of Insurance selected?
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Test Your Knowledge
What rate system does Ohio use for personal auto insurance?
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