How to Get a Life and Health Insurance License in PA

How to Get a Life and Health Insurance License in Pennsylvania

Thinking of launching a career in life and health insurance in Pennsylvania? You're not alone. With a growing demand for financial protection and retirement planning, becoming an insurance agent is a smart move. But before you can start helping clients secure their financial futures, you’ll need to obtain your license. Here's everything you need to know to make it happen.

1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a life insurance license in Pennsylvania, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Reside in PA
Have a valid Social Security number
Be a legal U.S. resident or possess a valid work permit

2. Complete A Pre-Licensing Prep Course

Before you take the license exam, it’s important to make time to gain the knowledge you’ll need to pass this exam on your first attempt. Studying an online exam prep course will provide you with the needed knowledge and information you’ll need to pass your license exam.

An online study course provides you with very specific insurance industry knowledge that will be used during the license exam. Online courses are self-study and include reading content, lesson videos, simulated exams, flashcards, quizzes, summary videos, and flashcards.

3. Schedule and Pass the Exam

After completing your pre-licensing course, it’s time to schedule the license exam through PSI, the state’s official testing vendor.

Exam Overview:

Format: Multiple choice
Length: 2 hours
Passing Score: 70% (or better)
Topics Covered: Insurance policies, policy riders, annuities, insurance laws, ethics, and more.

4. Complete a Background Check and Fingerprinting

Pennsylvania requires a simple criminal background check and fingerprinting for all new applicants. You must schedule your fingerprints through IdentoGO, the state’s authorized vendor.

5. Apply for Your License

Once you’ve passed the exam and completed your fingerprinting, it’s time to officially apply for your license through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR).

Final Thoughts

Getting your life and health insurance license in Pennsylvania is a clear, structured process. While it takes effort and preparation, the rewards, both professionally and financially, are worth it. Follow these steps, stay organized, and before you know it, you'll be helping clients build a more secure future and building a more financially future for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be hired by an agency first?
No, you don’t need to be hired or sponsored by an insurance company or agency to go through the process of obtaining your license. In fact, going through the process of being licensed before seeking an agency to work with actually makes you more marketable for opportunities.
Can I use my license in other states?
You can apply for a non-resident license in reciprocal states through the NIPR system, as long as your Florida license is active and in good standing.
What’s on the PA Life & Health exam?
The exam includes topics like insurance regulations, types of life and health policies, policy provisions, underwriting, annuities, Medicare/Medicaid, and ethics.
What are the basic requirements?
Be a PA resident, be at least 18 years old, have a valid social security number, complete a prep course, pass the exam.