How to Verify an Insurance Agent’s License Online or Over the Phone
If you want to make sure you’re working with a legitimate insurance agent or broker, the best way is to verify their license through your state’s Department of Insurance (DOI). Here’s how you can do it online or by phone:
The quickest method is by visiting the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Scroll down to “State Department” and select your state from the dropdown menu. This will take you to your state’s official insurance department site, where you can search for licensed agents or agencies. Navigation varies by state, so be patient if the site isn’t the most user-friendly. If needed, you can also call the number provided on the state website for verbal confirmation.
When verifying, it’s best to have the agent’s license number. Every agent and agency has a unique identifier that makes the process much easier. If you don’t have the license number, make sure you have their full name spelled correctly, as well as the city where their office is located—especially important if they have a common last name.
Remember: All insurance companies, agents, and brokers are regulated at the state level. They must hold an active license in your state to legally sell health, life, or other insurance products to you. The agent does not have to live in your state, but they must be licensed there. Insurance companies will reject any application submitted by an unlicensed agent.
Agents, brokers, and agencies must maintain separate licenses for every state in which they conduct business.
Verify a Michigan Insurance Agent License
If you’re a Michigan resident, you can quickly check an agent’s license status through the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Agent Lookup. Simply enter the agent’s name and, ideally, their National Producer Number (NPN). If you don’t have the NPN, include their city and state to confirm you’ve got the right person. Always make sure the license status is listed as “Active.”
You can also verify an agency license through the DIFS Agency Locator. Try searching for “Maple Valley Insurance Group” as an example—you’ll see our Kalamazoo, MI address and confirm that we are in good standing with the State of Michigan.
Michigan Life Insurance License Lookup
The same DIFS search tool can verify life insurance licenses. When searching, know whether the agent is a Michigan resident or a non-resident licensed in Michigan. Enter their first and last name along with their NPN if possible. The results will show if the agent is authorized to sell life insurance. Note: Not all agents who sell auto or home insurance are licensed for life insurance—make sure “Life” is listed as a line of authority.
If you’re not completely sure about the person you’re working with—or want guidance from someone who is fully licensed as both an independent agent/broker in Michigan—our agency team at Maple Valley Insurance Group is here to help. We’re in good standing with the State of Michigan and happy to assist consumers who want clarity and confidence when choosing insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Insurance License Verification
How do I verify an insurance agent’s license?
You can verify an insurance agent’s license by visiting your state’s Department of Insurance website. Start at the NAIC State Map, choose your state, and use the official license lookup tool.
Is it mandatory for an insurance agent to be licensed in my state?
Yes. An agent must be licensed in your state to sell or advise you on insurance products—even if they live in a different state.
What if I don’t have the agent’s license number?
If you don’t have a license number, use the agent’s full name, the agency name, and the city where they’re located. This helps ensure you’re looking up the correct person.
How do I check a Michigan insurance agent license?
Use the Michigan DIFS License Lookup. Enter the agent’s name or NPN and verify that their license status is “Active.”