Which of the following is an essential characteristic of a life-only agent?

A life-only agent is defined by their authorization to sell only life insurance products. This specialization means that they focus exclusively on life insurance policies, which can include whole life, term life, universal life, and other types of life insurance. This characteristic allows them to become particularly knowledgeable in that field, providing expert advice and tailored solutions to their clients regarding life insurance.

The other options do not accurately describe an essential characteristic of a life-only agent. While some agents may work independently and represent multiple companies, this is not a defining trait of life-only agents, who are specifically licensed for life insurance products. Additionally, a focus exclusively on health insurance is characteristic of health insurance agents rather than life-only agents. Furthermore, being required to work with a single insurance company refers to captive agents, who have a different role compared to life-only agents. Thus, the essence of a life-only agent lies in their authorization to sell life insurance exclusively.