Everything You Need to Know About Insurance License Georgia

If you’re considering a career in the insurance industry in Georgia, you’ll need to obtain an insurance license before you can legally sell insurance. Obtaining an insurance license in Georgia follows a specific set of guidelines and requirements that you’ll need to be aware of before you begin the process. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about getting your insurance license in Georgia.

Who Needs an Insurance License in Georgia?

Before we dive into the requirements for getting an insurance license, let’s first discuss who actually needs a license to sell insurance in Georgia. In Georgia, anyone who intends to sell, solicit or negotiate insurance must have a license. This includes:

  • Insurance agents
  • Insurance brokers
  • Insurance adjusters
  • Third-party administrators

It’s also worth noting that licensing requirements vary depending on the type of insurance you plan on selling. For example, selling property and casualty insurance requires a different type of license than selling life and health insurance.

Georgia Insurance License Requirements

To obtain an insurance license in Georgia, there are a few basic requirements that you’ll need to meet first:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a legal resident of Georgia or have a principal place of business in Georgia
  • Complete a pre-licensing education course
  • Pass a licensing exam
  • Submit an application and pay the required fees

Pre-Licensing Education Course

Before you can take the licensing exam, you’ll need to complete a pre-licensing education course. The length of this course will vary depending on the type of insurance you plan on selling.

For property and casualty insurance, the pre-licensing course must include at least 40 hours of instruction. For life and health insurance, the course must include at least 20 hours of instruction.

You can take the pre-licensing course online or in-person, and there are many providers to choose from. Examples of pre-licensing providers in Georgia include:

  • Kaplan Financial Education
  • ExamFX
  • A.D. Banker & Company

Licensing Exam

Once you’ve completed the pre-licensing education course, you’ll need to pass a licensing exam. The exam is administered by the state of Georgia and is designed to test your knowledge of insurance laws and regulations.

The exam is multiple-choice and includes questions on topics such as insurance policies, ethics, and client needs assessment. You’ll have two hours to complete the exam, and you must score at least 70% to pass.

Application and Fees

After you’ve passed the licensing exam, you’ll need to submit an application and pay the required fees. The application will ask for basic information about you, such as your name and contact information.

As of 2021, the fees for a new insurance agent license in Georgia are:

License Type
Application Fee
Licensing Fee
Fingerprint Processing Fee
Total Fee
Property and Casualty
$50
$100
$52
$202
Life and Health
$50
$100
$52
$202

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so be sure to check the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner website for the most up-to-date information.

FAQ About Insurance License Georgia

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

The timeline for getting an insurance license in Georgia can vary depending on a few factors, such as how quickly you complete the pre-licensing education course and how long it takes to schedule and take the licensing exam. Generally, the process takes anywhere from four to eight weeks.

How often do I need to renew my insurance license in Georgia?

In Georgia, insurance licenses must be renewed every two years. To renew your license, you’ll need to complete a certain number of continuing education hours and pay a renewal fee.

What happens if I let my insurance license expire in Georgia?

If you let your insurance license expire, you’ll need to complete the pre-licensing education course and retake the licensing exam. It’s important to keep your license up-to-date to avoid any interruptions in your ability to sell insurance.

Can I sell insurance in Georgia with an out-of-state license?

No, you must have a Georgia insurance license to sell insurance in Georgia. If you have an out-of-state license, you may be able to apply for a Georgia non-resident license, which would allow you to sell insurance in Georgia on a limited basis.

What types of insurance are regulated by the state of Georgia?

The state of Georgia regulates many types of insurance, including:

  • Property and casualty insurance
  • Life and health insurance
  • Auto insurance
  • Homeowners insurance
  • Workers’ compensation insurance
  • Disability insurance

Final Thoughts

Obtaining an insurance license in Georgia can be a bit of a process, but it’s a necessary step if you want to sell insurance in the state. By completing the pre-licensing education course, passing the licensing exam, and submitting your application and fees, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your Georgia insurance license. If you have any additional questions or need further guidance, be sure to reach out to the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner for assistance.