In Virginia, you must complete an approved pre‑licensing education course before applying for a life insurance license; the state mandates 20 hours of study covering insurance fundamentals, ethics, and state regulations. After the course, you schedule the state exam, pass it, and submit the licensing application with the required fee and background check.
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State‑Mandated Pre‑Licensing Requirement
The Virginia Bureau of Insurance requires all life insurance candidates to finish a state‑approved curriculum totaling at least 20 hours. The program can be taken online or in a classroom, and it must be documented on your application.
Exam and Application Process
Once the course is completed, you register for the licensing exam through PSI, the testing vendor. A passing score of 70% is needed. After passing, you file the NPN (National Producer Number) application, upload proof of education, and pay the $30 fee.
Exceptions and Exemptions
Veterans or individuals holding a valid life insurance license in another state may qualify for reciprocity, allowing them to skip the education portion if they meet continuing education requirements. However, most applicants without such credentials must still take the course.
Continuing Education
After obtaining the license, Virginia requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years, including three hours of ethics, to maintain active status.
Key Timeline Overview
| Step | Typical Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre‑licensing course | 1–3 weeks | 20‑hour state‑approved program |
| Exam scheduling | 1–2 weeks | PSI testing center availability |
| Application submission | Within 30 days of passing | Include education proof and fee |
| License issuance | 2–4 weeks | Depends on background check |