What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)? A Plain-English Guide
A certificate of insurance is one page that proves coverage exists. Learn what it shows, what it doesn't, and how to read one before an event or a job.
The short version
A certificate of insurance (COI)is a single page that proves an insurance policy is in force. Venues ask renters for one. General contractors ask subcontractors for one. Clients ask vendors for one. It exists so you don't have to read someone's entire policy to confirm they're covered.
What a certificate shows
- The insured — the business or person who holds the policy.
- The carrier — the insurance company providing coverage.
- Coverage types — e.g. general liability, auto, workers' comp.
- Limits — the maximum the policy will pay (e.g. $1M / $2M).
- Effective and expiration dates — the window the policy is active.
- The certificate holder — the party receiving proof.
- Additional insured / endorsements — whether coverage extends to others.
What a certificate does not do
A certificate is evidence only. It does not change the policy, guarantee coverage for a specific claim, or — on its own — protect the person holding it. For that, you need to be named as an additional insured, not just a certificate holder.
How to read one before an event or job
- Are the dates current and do they cover your event/job window?
- Do the limits meet your minimum requirement?
- Are you listed — as certificate holder and additional insured?
- Is the right coverage type present (e.g. general liability)?
Frequently asked questions
What is a certificate of insurance?
A certificate of insurance (COI) is a one-page summary issued by an insurer or agent that shows a policy exists, who is covered, the coverage types, the limits, and the effective dates. It is proof of coverage, not the policy itself.
Who issues a certificate of insurance?
The insurance carrier or the policyholder's licensed agent issues the certificate. The person or business who needs proof (a venue, a general contractor, a client) is listed as the certificate holder.
Is a certificate of insurance the same as being insured?
No. A certificate proves someone else has coverage. To actually be protected under that policy, you must be named as an additional insured — a separate step from being a certificate holder.
How do I verify a certificate of insurance is valid?
Check the effective and expiration dates, confirm the limits meet your requirement, verify your name and additional-insured status appear, and — if in doubt — contact the issuing agent listed on the form.
Want certificates to arrive automatically instead of chasing them? Venues and contractors can set up a custom insurance link.