Check Your Texas Life Insurance License Status

To become a life insurance agent in Texas, you must obtain a life insurance license. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) requires you to complete a five-step process, from taking the life insurance exam to applying for a license. These steps include completing a pre-license course, taking the Texas Life Insurance Licensing Exam, getting a fingerprint-based background check, completing a license application, and waiting for the application results. The entire process takes a few weeks, and there are fees associated with each step.

Pre-license education course

To obtain a life insurance license in Texas, you must pass a licensing exam. While the state of Texas does not require prelicensing education, it is highly recommended that you enroll in a study course due to the exam's difficulty.

When selecting an online pre-licensing course, consider factors such as course material, instructor accessibility, student testimonials, course duration, and price. Most quality online courses use interactive activities, such as videos, quizzes, and exams, to engage students and enhance their comprehension.

The duration of pre-licensing courses varies, with online courses typically offering 30 to 90 days of access. In contrast, in-person courses are usually taught over 3 to 5 days, scheduled right before the exam.

The cost of pre-licensing courses in Texas generally ranges from $75 to $150, but prices can vary depending on the course provider and the features included. Some courses may offer additional resources, such as textbooks, practice exams, flashcards, and video lectures, which can enhance your learning experience.

It is important to choose a reputable course provider that is approved by the Texas Department of Insurance. This ensures that the course will cover the necessary topics and meet the educational requirements for the licensing exam.

By enrolling in a pre-license education course, you will gain a strong foundation in life insurance concepts and increase your chances of passing the licensing exam on your first attempt.

Texas Life Insurance Licensing Exam

To get a life insurance license in Texas, you must pass the Texas Life Insurance Licensing Exam. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain your license:

Step 1: Complete an Insurance Prelicensing Course

Although the state of Texas does not require prelicensing education, it is highly recommended that you enrol in a study course due to the difficulty and nature of the licensing exam. You can choose from a variety of course formats, including Live Online, Live & OnDemand, and Self-Study Online. These courses provide a safe and convenient learning environment and ensure you are well-prepared for the exam.

Step 2: Pass the Texas Life Insurance Licensing Exam

The Texas Life Insurance Licensing Exam is provided by Pearson VUE. It is a computerized exam consisting of multiple-choice questions. The exam covers both national and state-specific content, with a total of 95 questions. You will need a score of at least 70 to pass the exam. It is recommended that you prepare thoroughly for the exam by reviewing the exam content and structure beforehand.

Step 3: Get Fingerprinted

Most applicants for a life insurance license in Texas are required to undergo a fingerprint background check. You can schedule your fingerprint appointment through IdentoGO, either by visiting their website or giving them a call. The electronic fingerprint fee is typically around $41, but prices may vary.

Step 4: Apply for Your Texas Life Insurance License

Once you have successfully passed the licensing exam and completed your fingerprinting, you can proceed to apply for your life insurance license in Texas. The application fee is $50, and you can apply online using the Sircon or National Insurance Producer Registry website. Make sure to submit your application within one year of passing the exam, as you will need to retake the exam otherwise.

Step 5: Complete Required Insurance Continuing Education (CE) Credits

As a licensed insurance producer in Texas, you must adhere to the state's CE requirements. It is important to stay on top of your continuing education to maintain your license and stay ahead in your field. You can access unlimited course access for 365 days by enrolling in a CE library.

Fingerprint-based background check

To become a licensed life insurance agent in Texas, you must undergo a fingerprint-based background check. This is a legal requirement in Texas for those applying for a license in a wide variety of areas, including childcare providers, teachers, security guards, and more.

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) requires applicants to get a fingerprint background check from IdentoGO and submit a copy of the receipt to show that their fingerprints were sent to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The fingerprinting services are carried out by IDEMIA, which was selected by the Department of Public Safety to implement the Fingerprint Applicant Services of Texas (FAST).

To receive your fingerprint service code and instructions, you must begin the application process on TDI's online initial application and fingerprint portal. You can then schedule a fingerprint appointment through the IdentoGO website using your service code.

Some people may be exempt from getting a fingerprint background check. For example, Texas residents with an active license and submitted fingerprints do not need to undergo the process again. To learn more about exemptions, you can refer to the Texas Administrative Code.

Texas Life Insurance License Application

To apply for a Texas Life Insurance License, you must:

• Complete an Insurance Prelicensing Course: Although the state of Texas does not require prelicensing education, you may want to enroll in a study course to prepare for the licensing exam. A temporary 90-day license can be applied for, which allows you to be licensed before passing the exam and receiving a permanent license.
• Pass the Texas Licensing Exam: This exam can be taken through Pearson VUE.
• Get Fingerprinted: Most applicants must get a fingerprint background check from IdentoGO and submit the receipt to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
• Apply for a Texas Life Insurance License: You can apply for a resident agent license or a resident agency license. The application fee for both is $50, and you can apply online using Sircon or the National Insurance Producer Registry.
• Complete Required Insurance Continuing Education (CE) Credits: All insurance producers must adhere to their home state's CE requirements.

Application results

Once you have completed the four steps of the application process, the Texas Department of Insurance's (TDI) Agent & Adjuster Licensing Office will review your application and background check. The TDI will review filings in the order they are received, and this process usually takes one to five business days from the date you submit your application.

After the review is complete, the TDI's Agent & Adjuster Licensing Office will email you with its decision or ask you to provide more information.

You can print your license from the Sircon or National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) website. There is no charge to create an account or print a license. If you don't remember your license number, you can find it by using Sircon's Customer Inquiry tool.

You are now ready to get started as a life insurance agent in Texas.

Frequently asked questions