Step‑by‑Step Guide: Getting Your Life and Health Insurance License from Home

Overview

Obtaining a life and health insurance license from home is a straightforward process that combines online coursework, a state exam, and a digital application. Most states require you to complete pre‑licensing education (typically 20‑30 hours), pass the licensing exam, and submit a background check. The entire journey can be finished in 4‑8 weeks if you study consistently and use reputable online resources.

1. Understand State Requirements

Each state sets its own rules for life and health insurance licensing. The core elements are:

• Pre‑licensing education (mandatory hours)
• Passing the state exam
• Submitting an application with fees
• Background/fingerprint check

Visit your state's Department of Insurance website to verify the exact hour count and any additional criteria.

2. Choose an Approved Online Pre‑Licensing Course

Accredited providers such as Kaplan, ExamFX, and AD Banker offer self‑paced courses that satisfy state requirements. When selecting a course, check for:

• State‑specific curriculum
• Interactive quizzes and practice exams
• Money‑back guarantee if you fail the first attempt

Cost Comparison

All three meet the typical 20‑hour requirement for life and health licenses.

3. Study Effectively

Focus on these high‑yield topics, which consistently appear on state exams:

• Policy provisions and riders
• Underwriting principles
• Ethics and state regulations
• Health insurance terminology (e.g., HMO, PPO)

Use spaced‑repetition flashcards and take timed practice exams to gauge readiness.

4. Register for the State Exam

After completing the coursework, you can schedule the exam through the state‑approved testing vendor (often Pearson VUE). Steps:

• Log in to the vendor portal with your candidate ID.
• Select a convenient date and a remote‑proctored or local testing center.
• Pay the exam fee (usually $70‑$100).

The exam is typically 150 multiple‑choice questions, with a passing score of 70% or higher.

5. Submit Your License Application

Once you pass, you'll receive a provisional certificate. Use it to complete the online application on your state's insurance department portal. Required items include:

• Proof of education (certificate from the course provider)
• Exam score report
• Fingerprinting results (often done via a third‑party service)
• Application fee (varies by state, $50‑$150)

Most states approve applications within 5‑10 business days.

6. Maintain Your License

After activation, you must fulfill continuing education (CE) requirements—usually 24 hours every two years, with at least 3 hours on ethics. Online CE courses are widely available and can be completed at home.

Quick Reference Checklist

• Verify state‑specific hour requirement.
• Enroll in an approved online pre‑licensing course.
• Study 1‑2 hours daily; complete all quizzes.
• Schedule and pass the state exam.
• Gather education certificate, exam report, and fingerprint clearance.
• Submit the online application with fees.
• Complete required CE to keep the license active.