How to Get a Life and Health Insurance License in Oregon – A Step‑by‑Step Guide

Why Oregon Requires a Life and Health Insurance License

In Oregon, selling life or health insurance is a regulated activity. The Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) ensures that agents understand policy terms, ethical standards, and consumer protection laws. A license protects consumers from fraud and guarantees that agents meet minimum competency levels.

Who Needs a License?

Anyone who directly sells, markets, or recommends life or health insurance products in Oregon must hold a valid license. This includes:

• Independent agents
• Broker‑dealers
• Insurance company representatives

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, confirm you meet these prerequisites:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Pass a background check (no felony convictions related to fraud or financial crimes).
• Have a clean driving record if required by your sponsoring agency.

Step 2: Complete Pre‑Licensing Education

Oregon mandates 20 hours of pre‑licensing coursework:

• 10 hours of general insurance principles.
• 5 hours of state‑specific regulations.
• 5 hours of ethics and professional conduct.

Courses can be taken online or in person through approved providers such as the Oregon Insurance Education Council.

Step 3: Register with the DCBS

Submit an application via the DCBS website. You will need:

• Personal identification (driver's license or state ID).
• Proof of education completion (certificate).
• Application fee of $125 (as of 2024).

Step 4: Pass the State Exam

The exam is a 150‑question multiple‑choice test covering:

• Life insurance products (term, whole, universal).
• Health insurance plans (HMO, PPO, HDHP).
• State insurance laws and regulations.

Scoring: 70% required to pass. You can retake the exam up to three times within 12 months.

Step 5: Background Check and Fingerprinting

After passing the exam, the DCBS will conduct a background check. You must submit fingerprints via the Oregon State Police. If any disqualifying offenses are found, your license will be denied.

Step 6: Obtain a Surety Bond (if required)

Some agencies require a $10,000 surety bond to protect clients. Verify with your sponsoring company.

Step 7: Receive Your License

Once all criteria are met, the DCBS will issue a license. It typically arrives within 4–6 weeks. Your license number is valid for 12 months.

Renewal and Continuing Education

Licenses must be renewed annually. Renewal requires:

• Paying a renewal fee of $50.
• Completing 4 hours of continuing education (2 hours of ethics, 2 hours of product updates).

Failure to renew on time can result in suspension or revocation.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete education records: Keep your certificate handy.

• Forgotten fingerprint submission: Schedule early.

• Missed renewal deadlines: Set calendar reminders.

Useful Resources

• DCBS Licensing Portal: https://dcbs.oregon.gov/Insurance-Licensing

• Oregon Insurance Education Council: https://www.oregoninsurancecouncil.org

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