What You Need to Know Up Front
To sell life insurance in Georgia, you must obtain a state‑issued Life Insurance Producer license. The process involves pre‑licensing education, passing the state exam, submitting an application with fees, and meeting background‑check criteria. Once licensed, you'll also need to complete continuing education (CE) to keep the credential active.
- What You Need to Know Up Front
- Eligibility Overview
- Step‑by‑Step Licensing Process
- 1. Complete Pre‑licensing Education
- 2. Register for the State Exam
- 3. Submit the License Application
- 4. Background Check & Fingerprinting
- 5. Receive Your License
- Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
- Cost Summary
- Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Resources and Helpful Links
- Quick Reference Checklist
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Eligibility Overview
Before you begin, confirm you meet these basic eligibility rules:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Residency is not required; non‑residents can apply, but must designate a Georgia principal office.
Step‑by‑Step Licensing Process
1. Complete Pre‑licensing Education
Georgia mandates 20 hours of approved pre‑licensing coursework for the Life Insurance (including Variable) license. Courses can be taken online or in a classroom and must be completed within 12 months before you sit for the exam.
2. Register for the State Exam
After finishing the coursework, you register with PSI, the testing vendor. The exam fee is $100, and you'll have 150 minutes to answer 150 multiple‑choice questions. A passing score of 70% is required.
3. Submit the License Application
Log in to the Georgia Department of Insurance (DOI) eLicensing portal, fill out the online application, and pay the licensing fee ($115 for a non‑resident, $85 for a resident). You'll also need to upload your pre‑licensing certificate and a recent photo ID.
4. Background Check & Fingerprinting
All applicants must undergo a criminal background check via electronic fingerprinting. The cost is $50, and the DOI reviews the results within 5‑10 business days.
5. Receive Your License
Once approved, the DOI issues an electronic license. You can print a PDF copy for your records and begin conducting business under the "Life Insurance Producer" designation.
Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
Georgia licenses are valid for two years. To renew, you must complete 12 hours of CE, including at least 3 hours of ethics training, before the expiration date. CE can be completed through approved providers and reported online.
Cost Summary
| Expense | Typical Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre‑licensing course | $150‑$250 | Depends on provider |
| Exam fee | $100 | Paid to PSI |
| License application fee | $85‑$115 | Resident vs. non‑resident |
| Fingerprinting | $50 | Electronic background check |
| Continuing education (2‑year cycle) | $75‑$120 | 12 hours total |
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Attempting the exam before completing the full 20‑hour course – the DOI will reject the application.
- Missing the fingerprinting appointment – delays can push your start date by weeks.
- Overlooking the 3‑hour ethics CE requirement during renewal – leads to license suspension.
Resources and Helpful Links
All official forms and detailed instructions are available on the Georgia Department of Insurance website:
- Georgia DOI Home
- Licensee Services Portal
- PSI Exam Registration
Quick Reference Checklist
- Age 18+ and valid SSN/ITIN
- Complete 20‑hour pre‑licensing course
- Pass the 150‑question state exam (70%+)
- Submit application with $85‑$115 fee
- Complete electronic fingerprinting
- Maintain 12 CE hours (incl. 3 ethics) every 2 years