Insurance Agent License Texas: Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking to become an insurance agent in Texas? Getting your insurance agent license is the first step towards a rewarding career in the insurance industry. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about obtaining your insurance agent license in Texas.

Why Become an Insurance Agent in Texas?

There are many reasons why becoming an insurance agent in Texas can be a great career choice. First, the insurance industry in Texas is thriving, with many opportunities for growth and advancement. Second, insurance agents in Texas can enjoy a high level of job security and stability, with many insurance companies offering competitive salaries and benefits.

Third, insurance agents in Texas are able to make a real difference in the lives of their clients, helping them to protect their assets and plan for the future. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career with the potential for long-term growth and success, becoming an insurance agent in Texas may be the right choice for you.

Types of Insurance Licenses in Texas

Before you can become an insurance agent in Texas, you will need to obtain the appropriate license. There are two types of insurance licenses in Texas:

• General Lines License: This license allows you to sell a variety of insurance products, including property, casualty, personal lines, and commercial lines insurance.
• Limited Lines License: This license allows you to sell a specific type of insurance, such as life, health, or auto insurance.

Depending on the type of insurance you are interested in selling, you will need to obtain the appropriate license. In most cases, insurance agents in Texas choose to obtain a general lines license, as it allows them to sell a wider range of insurance products and increase their earning potential.

General Lines License

To obtain a general lines license in Texas, you will need to complete the following steps:

1. Meet the eligibility requirements
2. Complete the pre-licensing education requirements
3. Pass the Texas insurance licensing exam
4. Apply for your license

Eligibility Requirements

In order to be eligible to obtain a general lines license in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident of Texas
• Not have committed any felonies or misdemeanors involving fraud or dishonesty

Pre-Licensing Education Requirements

Before you can take the Texas insurance licensing exam, you will need to complete a certain number of pre-licensing education hours. The number of hours required varies depending on the type of insurance you are interested in selling.

For a general lines license, you will need to complete a minimum of 40 hours of pre-licensing education. You can complete these hours online or in-person through a Texas-approved education provider.

Texas Insurance Licensing Exam

Once you have completed your pre-licensing education hours, you will need to take and pass the Texas insurance licensing exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and you are given 2.5 hours to complete it.

You must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you will be allowed to retake the exam after a certain waiting period.

Applying for Your License

After you have passed the Texas insurance licensing exam, you will need to apply for your license. You can do this online through the Texas Department of Insurance website.

You will need to provide proof of your pre-licensing education hours, as well as pay the required licensing fees.

Limited Lines License

If you are interested in selling a specific type of insurance, such as life, health, or auto insurance, you may be able to obtain a limited lines license instead of a general lines license.

The requirements for a limited lines license are similar to those for a general lines license, but you will only need to complete a certain number of pre-licensing education hours related to the type of insurance you are interested in selling.

FAQ

How long does it take to get an insurance agent license in Texas?

The amount of time it takes to get an insurance agent license in Texas varies depending on how quickly you are able to complete your pre-licensing education requirements and pass the Texas insurance licensing exam. In general, you can expect the process to take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

How much does it cost to get an insurance agent license in Texas?

The cost of getting an insurance agent license in Texas varies depending on the type of license you are interested in obtaining. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 in licensing fees, as well as the cost of your pre-licensing education hours and the Texas insurance licensing exam.

Do I need to be sponsored by an insurance company to get my license?

No, you do not need to be sponsored by an insurance company to obtain your insurance agent license in Texas. However, you will need to have a sponsoring insurance company in order to activate your license and begin selling insurance.

Is continuing education required to maintain my license?

Yes, in order to maintain your insurance agent license in Texas, you will need to complete a certain number of continuing education hours every two years. The number of hours required varies depending on the type of license you hold.

Conclusion

Obtaining your insurance agent license in Texas can be a great way to start a rewarding career in the insurance industry. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can be well on your way to becoming a licensed insurance agent in Texas.