Getting licensed is the first concrete step to an insurance career — and it's faster and cheaper than most people expect. Here's the step-by-step for a Life & Health license (the path for Medicare, final expense, ACA, and life). The process is similar for Property & Casualty.
Step 1: Meet the basic requirements
You must be at least 18 and a resident of the state where you'll get your license. Get your resident license first; non-resident licenses in other states can be added later through the NIPR in minutes.
Step 2: Complete pre-licensing education
Most states require a pre-licensing course — commonly 20–40 hours, online or in person. A handful of states don't require it, but the course is how you actually pass the exam, so take it seriously. Cost is modest (often under $100–$200).
Step 3: Pass the state exam
The Life & Health exam is multiple choice — typically 105–150 questions depending on the state and whether life and health are combined. You need 70% to pass in every state. Schedule at a testing center or take it online with a live proctor. Study the state-specific rules and the core concepts (policy types, riders, taxation, Medicare/ACA basics).
Step 4: Background check & fingerprints
Most states require a background check and sometimes fingerprints. Disclose anything in your history proactively — surprises cause delays, while disclosed items are usually fine.
Step 5: Submit your license application
Apply through your state's Department of Insurance (often via the NIPR). You'll provide ID, your SSN, proof of completing pre-licensing, and your exam result. Approval is often quick once everything's in.
Step 6: Get your NPN and get to work
Once licensed you'll have a National Producer Number (NPN) — a permanent ID that follows you across states and carriers. Now you're ready to get contracted with carriers and start selling.
How long and how much?
Most people complete the whole process in one to three weeks for a few hundred dollars total. The exam is the gate — prepare and you'll clear it on the first attempt.
Already licensed or almost there? Bridgepoint guides new agents from license to contracted to producing, usually within about a week. Apply to get started.