California's publicly-elected Insurance Commissioner regulates the largest insurance market in the United States, and the eighth largest insurance market in the world, with $123 billion in direct premiums; enforces the California Insurance Code; and oversees the California Department of Insurance (CDI). The CDI acts to ensure vibrant markets where insurers keep their promises and the health and economic security of individuals, families and businesses are protected.

The CDI licenses and regulates insurance companies, agents and brokers in California. Currently, the CDI oversees and licenses approximately 1,300 insurance companies and 340,000 individuals and business entities as insurance agents, brokers, adjusters and bail agents. Additionally, the CDI receives and investigates over 250,000 consumer inquiries and complaints annually; performs examinations to ensure the financial solvency of companies; receives approximately 28,000 suspected fraudulent claim referrals annually; and works in conjunction with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute fraudulent insurance practices.