Which action is the commissioner of insurance empowered to perform?

The commissioner of insurance plays a crucial role in overseeing the insurance industry within a state, and one of their key responsibilities is administering insurance licensing exams. This duty ensures that individuals seeking to become licensed insurance agents or brokers are properly qualified to operate within the insurance market. By conducting these exams, the commissioner helps maintain a standard of competency and ensures consumer protection.

While the commissioner does have regulatory oversight related to premium rates, they do not set the rates themselves; rather, they review and approve rates proposed by insurance companies. Writing insurance policies is not within the commissioner's scope of responsibilities, as that task is typically performed by the insurance companies. Investigating insurance fraud, while an important function in the industry, is often a responsibility designated to specialized teams or departments rather than being a primary duty of the commissioner.