Get A Life Insurance License: Texas Requirements Guide

Getting a life insurance license in Texas requires several steps, including passing an exam, a background check, and applying for the license. The process is managed by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) and requires a $50 application fee.

Complete a pre-licensing course

Completing a pre-licensing course is an important step in your journey to becoming a life insurance agent in Texas. While the state of Texas does not require pre-licensing education, it is highly recommended that you complete a course to prepare for your licensing exam.

There are several options available for completing a pre-licensing course, including online courses, live courses, and self-study materials. Online courses offer convenience and flexibility, allowing you to complete the course at your own pace. Live courses, on the other hand, provide a more structured learning environment and can be beneficial if you need the extra reinforcement of having an instructor.

When choosing a pre-licensing course, consider factors such as the teaching method, course material, testimonials from previous students, and the price. Most quality online courses range from $75 to $150 and offer interactive activities such as videos, quizzes, and practice exams.

Kaplan's pre-licensing course is a popular choice, with over 81% of readers using their online courses, which come with a 93% pass rate. Their course includes practice exams, flashcards, and study materials to help you prepare for your exam effectively.

It is important to note that if you desire a temporary 90-day license in Texas, you must complete 40 hours of pre-licensing education and have a sponsoring licensed insurance company, agency, or agent.

By completing a pre-licensing course, you will not only increase your chances of passing the licensing exam on your first attempt but also gain a solid understanding of your duties and responsibilities as a life insurance agent in Texas.

Pass the Texas Insurance Licensing Exam

Passing the Texas Insurance Licensing Exam is a crucial step in obtaining your life insurance license in Texas. Here are some detailed instructions to help you prepare for and pass the exam:

Step 1: Complete a Pre-license Course (Optional but Recommended)

Although Texas does not require pre-license education, it is highly recommended that you enrol in a pre-license course or study package to prepare for the exam. Companies like Kaplan and ExamFX offer comprehensive online courses, study materials, and practice exams to help you gain the knowledge and confidence needed to pass. These courses are self-paced and can greatly improve your chances of passing the licensing exam on your first attempt.

Step 2: Schedule Your Exam

After completing your preparation, it's time to schedule your Texas Life Insurance Licensing Exam. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE, and you can schedule it online or by calling them at (888) 754-7667. Remember to schedule your exam at least three days in advance, and note that payment is not accepted at the testing centre.

Step 3: Know the Exam Format and Content

The Texas Life Insurance Licensing Exam consists of 80 scored multiple-choice questions, divided into two sections: general and state-specific. The general section covers basic life insurance product knowledge, while the state section focuses on insurance concepts, terms, rules, regulations, and practices specific to Texas. You will have 120 minutes to complete the exam.

Step 4: Arrive Prepared on the Exam Day

On the day of your exam, arrive at the Pearson VUE testing site with two valid forms of government-issued identification, one of which must include a photograph and a signature. You will not be allowed to take the exam without meeting these requirements. It is also recommended to arrive early to allow for any check-in procedures and to familiarise yourself with the testing environment.

Step 5: Focus on Exam Strategies and Techniques

When taking the exam, remember that it is a multiple-choice test that heavily focuses on definitions and numbers (dollar amounts and day counts). The exam questions are randomly scrambled, and you will have a different set of questions from other test-takers. Stay calm if you encounter questions you are unsure about, as they may be pretest questions that do not count towards your final score.

Step 6: Pass Score and Retake Information

To pass the Texas Life Insurance Licensing Exam, you need a score of 70 or higher. If you don't pass on your first attempt, don't worry! You can retake the exam as soon as 24 hours after your first try, and there is no limit to the number of attempts you can make.

Get a fingerprint-based background check

To get a life insurance license in Texas, you must complete a fingerprint-based background check. This is a crucial step in the process, as it involves submitting your biometric data to the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) for review. Here is a detailed guide on how to get your fingerprint-based background check:

• Start the Application Process on TDI's Online Portal: Begin by visiting the TDI website and accessing their online initial application and fingerprint portal. This is where you will provide your personal information and initiate the background check procedure.
• Receive Your Fingerprint Service Code: Once you have started the application process, TDI will provide you with a unique fingerprint service code. This code is essential for scheduling your fingerprinting appointment and ensuring your records are correctly identified.
• Schedule Your Fingerprinting Appointment: To get your fingerprints taken, you will need to schedule an appointment with IdentoGO, the electronic fingerprinting service provider used by TDI. You can schedule your appointment online or by phone. When making the appointment, be sure to use the service code provided by TDI.
• Attend Your Fingerprinting Appointment: During your appointment with IdentoGO, they will capture your fingerprints electronically. Bring a valid photo ID and the required payment to your appointment. Your fingerprints will be sent digitally to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a background check.
• Receive and Submit the Receipt: After your fingerprints have been taken, IdentoGO will provide you with a receipt. This receipt serves as proof of your fingerprinting and background check. Keep the original receipt for your records, and attach a copy to the license application you submit to TDI.
• Check the Status of Your Background Check: If you want to track the progress of your background check, you can do so by visiting the IdentoGO website and clicking on the "Check the Status of Your Service" option. This will provide you with updates on whether your background check has been completed and if your application process can move forward.

Remember, the fingerprint-based background check is a mandatory step in obtaining your life insurance license in Texas. It ensures that your application meets the necessary security and legal requirements. Always refer to the TDI website for the most up-to-date information and guidelines regarding fingerprint-based background checks and licensing procedures.

Complete a Texas Life Insurance License Application

To complete a Texas Life Insurance License Application, you must apply online via Sircon or the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR). The application fee is $50.

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) will issue a life insurance license to individuals who are at least 18 years old and have passed the licensing exam. You should submit your completed license application within 12 months of passing the exam.

To apply for a life insurance license in Texas, make sure you comply with the insurance licensing requirements as defined under the Texas Insurance Code and Texas Administrative Code.

Send any questions or supporting documents to [email protected].

The TDI's Agent & Adjuster Licensing Office will review your application and background check. This process usually takes one to five business days from the date you submit your application.

Once your application 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 NIPR website. There’s 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.

Watch for your application results

After you've completed the first four steps to getting a life insurance license in Texas, the TDI's Agent & Adjuster Licensing Office will review your application and background check. This process usually takes one to five business days from the date you submit your application.

Once your application 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 then print your license from the Sircon or NIPR website. There's 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.

To excel as an insurance agent and maintain your license, you will need to take 24 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years to renew your license and maintain its good standing. You must complete two hours in ethics/consumer protection and at least 12 hours in "classroom" or "classroom-equivalent" courses.

For every hour of continuing education you fail to complete on time, you'll be required to pay a $50 fine (up to a maximum of $500 per license). You will not be able to renew your license until you complete your continuing education hours and pay any outstanding fines.

To avoid delays in renewing your license, complete the required continuing education hours at least 30 days before your license expires. There is also a $50 renewal fee that will need to be paid (plus a $25 late filing fee if applicable).

Frequently asked questions