Short answer
A certificate of insurance is a one-page document that proves you carry an active policy, showing the coverage types, limits, and dates. Clients, landlords, and government agencies often require one before you can sign a contract, lease space, or get a permit. It is proof of coverage, not the policy itself.
The Certificate of insurance summarizes your policy so a third party can confirm you are insured without seeing the full contract. It lists the insurer, policy numbers, coverage limits, and effective dates, and it can name another party as an Additional insured when a contract requires it.
Because it only reflects the policy in force, a certificate is current as of its issue date. If coverage changes or lapses, the certificate no longer reflects reality, which is why parties often ask for a fresh one at renewal.
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