What You Should Know About CA Insurance License

If you are looking to get a job in the insurance industry in California, you will need to get an insurance license. This process can be complicated and confusing, but it is necessary to legally work in the industry. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about the CA insurance license.

What is a CA Insurance License?

An insurance license is a certification that allows an individual to legally sell insurance in California. It is issued by the California Department of Insurance (CDI) and requires the applicant to meet specific education and examination requirements.

In California, there are four types of insurance licenses:

Type of Insurance License
Description
Life-Only Agent
This license allows an individual to sell life insurance policies only.
Accident and Health Agent
This license allows an individual to sell health and accident insurance policies.
Personal Lines Broker-Agent
This license allows an individual to sell property and casualty insurance policies for personal use.
Property and Casualty Broker-Agent
This license allows an individual to sell property and casualty insurance policies for commercial use.

Each type of license has specific education and examination requirements that must be met before it can be obtained.

How to Get a CA Insurance License

To get a CA insurance license, you must follow these steps:

Step 1: Meet the Provider Requirements

The first step in getting an insurance license is to meet the provider requirements. This includes:

  • Being at least 18 years old
  • Being a resident of California or having a valid work visa
  • Completing the pre-licensing education requirements

Each provider has its own specific requirements, so be sure to research the provider you plan to work with.

Step 2: Complete the Pre-Licensing Education Requirements

Each type of insurance license has specific pre-licensing education requirements that must be met. These requirements can range from 20 to 52 hours of classroom education. The courses can be taken in person or online, depending on the provider.

Once you have completed the pre-licensing education requirements, you will receive a Certificate of Completion.

Step 3: Pass the State Licensing Exam

Once you have completed the pre-licensing education requirements, you will need to pass the state licensing exam. The exam is administered by PSI Services and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. You will have 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete the exam, and you must score a 70% or higher to pass.

The cost for the exam is $50 per attempt, and you will need to make an appointment to take the exam through the PSI website or by phone.

Step 4: Apply for the License

After passing the state licensing exam, you will need to apply for the license through the CDI website. You will need to provide proof of completion of the pre-licensing education requirements, pass the criminal background check, and pay the licensing fee.

FAQ About CA Insurance License

1. How much does it cost to get a CA insurance license?

The cost of getting a CA insurance license can vary depending on the provider you choose. The pre-licensing education courses can cost anywhere from $150 to $400, and the exam fee is $50 per attempt. There is also a licensing fee of $188 for the first year.

2. How long does it take to get a CA insurance license?

The timeframe for getting a CA insurance license can vary depending on how quickly you can complete the pre-licensing education requirements and pass the state licensing exam. On average, the process can take 4 to 6 weeks.

3. Do I need to renew my CA insurance license?

Yes, you will need to renew your CA insurance license every two years. To renew your license, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education courses and pay the renewal fee.

4. Can I sell insurance in California without a license?

No, it is illegal to sell insurance in California without a license. Doing so can result in fines and legal action.

5. Can I apply for more than one type of insurance license?

Yes, you can apply for multiple types of insurance licenses, but you will need to complete the specific education and examination requirements for each type of license.

Conclusion

The process of getting a CA insurance license can be complicated, but it is necessary to legally work in the insurance industry in California. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain your license and start your career as an insurance agent.