How To Get A Washington Life and Health License

How To Get A Washington Life and Health Insurance License

Getting your Washington life and health insurance license is a critical first step in launching your career as a licensed agent. The process is simple and streamlined through the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner, and we'll walk you through the entire process.

1. Eligibility

Before you get started, Washington requires you to:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Have a clean background

2. Choose Your License

Washington offers several insurance licenses:

Life Insurance License (only)
Health Insurance License (only)
Life and Health License (combination)

3. Complete A Pre‐Licensing Study Course

Even though Washington doesn’t require pre-licensing education, completing a formal life & health insurance study course offers major benefits that can significantly improve your chances of passing the state exam

4. Pass the License Exam

Once you’ve completed your course, schedule your exam with PSI. An exam fee must be paid at the time of scheduling by credit card, debit card, voucher or electronic check. You can make an exam reservation at least 24 hours before the desired exam date or 5 days in advance if paying by ACH (electronic check).

5. Submit Your Application

Complete the Washington OIC license application
Pay the application fee
Submit fingerprints and background check, often done through IdentoGO

Final Thoughts

Getting your Washington life and health insurance license isn’t just about checking boxes, it’s about setting a professional foundation for a career that matters. With organization, preparation, and a willingness to learn, you’ll breeze through eligibility, education, exam, appointment, and compliance.

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 Washington license is active and in good standing.
How long does it take to get licensed?
It usually takes 2-4 weeks, depending on how soon you complete a study course and pass the license exam.
What are the basic requirements?
Be a Utah resident, be at least 18 years old, have a valid social security number, complete a prep course, pass the exam.