New Rules Open Doors for Licensing Military Spouses as Surplus Lines Agents in Texas

Texas has increased the eligibility of military spouses to be licensed as a surplus lines agent in the state, according to the Surplus Lines Stamping Office of Texas (SLTX).

Under new rules adopted by the Texas Department of Insurance that became effective Feb. 6, military spouses who are licensed in a state with substantially equivalent requirements to those in Texas are eligible for a surplus lines license while the military service member is stationed at a military installation in Texas.

The military spouse must submit an application to TDI, submit proof of residency in Texas and a copy of the spouse’s military identification card, and show evidence of good standing from the jurisdiction with substantially equivalent requirements. Once confirmed, the license is effective for three years.

The rules were adopted as a result of the passage in 2019 of Senate Bill 1200, which amends state code to address the authority of military spouses to engage in business or occupation in Texas.