What is required for obtaining a surplus lines license in West Virginia?

To obtain a surplus lines license in West Virginia, an individual must be a licensed insurance producer and submit an application to the Division of Insurance. This requirement ensures that the applicant has already met the general qualifications and regulatory standards set for insurance producers in the state, providing confidence in their ability to handle surplus lines policies. Surplus lines insurance refers to coverage provided by non-admitted insurers, which means these insurers are not licensed to operate in the state but can provide coverage that might not be available through standard markets.

Having a law degree, specific years of experience, or passing an additional test are not mandated prerequisites for obtaining a surplus lines license. The focus on being a licensed producer emphasizes the importance of having a foundational understanding of insurance principles and practices, legal compliance, and the ability to effectively serve clients' needs within the framework established by the West Virginia Division of Insurance. This streamlined approach helps maintain regulatory standards while ensuring that licensed producers are equipped to engage with surplus lines insurance appropriately.