Pre-licensing
A pre-licensing course is a state-required training program that producers must pass before taking the exam to get licensed for the first time.
Related to Licensing Requirements
To understand pre-licensing, one must know how it relates to the general requirements to obtain a license for the first time.
- Continuing Education (CE): Ongoing educational requirements that must be met to keep a license active.
- Resident License: Pre-licensing is typically only required for resident licenses, but requirements can vary across states.
- Fingerprinting and Background Checks: Strategies used by the state to verify a producer’s criminal and financial history before granting a license.
- State Licensing Exam: Most states require an exam to obtain an insurance license. The exam tests key concepts such as line of authority and regulatory knowledge.
People Also Ask
- Do all states require pre-licensing courses?
No, only 19 states require pre-licensing courses (See the full list below). However, even if not required, pre-licensing courses can still help producers prepare for the licensing exam. - Where can I find information about pre-licensing requirements?
Pre-licensing requirements for your state can typically be found on the state Department of Insurance website. - Do I need pre-licensing courses to obtain a license?
Pre-licensing requirements are usually based on the resident license. States may not require the licensing exam or pre-licensing requirements for a non-resident license, so long as the resident license is in good standing.
States that require pre-licensing courses:
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- New Jersey
- New York
- Ohio
- Oregon
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin