What it does for drivers
The NAIC, the association of these regulators, describes their job as regulating the insurance industry and protecting consumers. For car insurance, that typically includes:
- Licensing. Insurers and agents need a license, and you can look them up. The Texas Department of Insurance, for example, offers searches for companies, agents and company filings.
- Rates. Departments oversee auto insurance rates, though methods differ. Texas, for example, does not approve rates in advance but can order refunds if it finds rates too high.
- Complaints. You can complain about a claim, cancellation or nonrenewal. Texas takes written complaints, but notes it cannot decide who was at fault in an accident or set the amount of damages.
- Consumer help. Departments publish guides on required coverage, shopping and claims, and answer questions by phone.
How to find yours
The NAIC's insurance departments page links to every state and territory regulator, with contact details and complaint options. Each state page on this site also lists the regulator for that state.
Related terms
Sources
- NAIC, Insurance departments directory of state and territorial regulators, their consumer role and complaint links
- Texas Department of Insurance, Auto insurance guide rate oversight, complaints and lookup tools from one state regulator
Last reviewed by the StateCover Guide editorial team. See our editorial policy. Spotted an error? Tell us.