Key Takeaways
- The Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI) operates under the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA)
- The Insurance Commissioner is appointed by the Governor, not elected
- Colorado uses a "file and use" rating system for most P&C insurance lines
- DOI handles licensing, market conduct examinations, consumer complaints, and rate review
- Colorado requires producers to complete pre-license education before taking the state exam
Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI)
Important: This study guide covers Colorado 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 Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI) is the state agency responsible for regulating the Property & Casualty insurance industry in Colorado. It operates as a division within the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
The Insurance Commissioner
The Insurance Commissioner is:
- Appointed by the Governor
- Head of the Division of Insurance
- Responsible for enforcing Colorado insurance statutes (Title 10)
- Authorized to adopt regulations, review rates, investigate violations, and discipline licensees
Commissioner Powers for P&C Insurance
| Power | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Issue, suspend, and revoke producer licenses |
| Rate Review | Review P&C insurance rates under file-and-use system |
| Market Conduct | Examine insurer business practices |
| Enforcement | Investigate and prosecute violations |
| Consumer Protection | Handle complaints and protect policyholders |
| Rulemaking | Adopt regulations interpreting insurance statutes |
DORA Structure
The Division of Insurance is part of DORA (Department of Regulatory Agencies):
DOI Organization
- Producer Licensing Section - Handles agent/broker licensing
- Rate and Form Review - Reviews P&C insurance rates and forms
- Market Conduct Section - Examines insurer practices
- Consumer Services - Handles consumer complaints
- Fraud Investigation Unit - Investigates insurance fraud
Exam Tip: Remember that Colorado's Insurance Commissioner is APPOINTED by the Governor, unlike some states where the commissioner is elected.
Rate Regulation
Colorado uses a "file and use" rating system for most P&C lines:
How It Works
- Insurers file rates with DOI
- Rates can be used upon filing (no prior approval needed for most lines)
- DOI can disapprove rates that are excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory
- Workers' compensation rates have separate regulatory requirements
How is the Colorado Insurance Commissioner selected?
What rating system does Colorado use for most P&C insurance lines?