How to Get a California Insurance License

If you’re considering earning your insurance license in California, you may be wondering where to start. No two states’ requirements are completely alike, so it’s important to know the licensing process for your state. Individuals seeking to earn a real estate license in California must follow these 4 steps:

Step 1: Complete the Required Prelicensing Education

First things first, you need to complete the required education. For each license type, there is a specific number of hours of prelicensing education you must receive from a state-approved education provider. Our California state requirements page outlines the specific hourly requirements for each specific license type.

When you have completed the course, you will receive a Certificate of Completion. You must submit the original certificate with your license application (see below). You should also make a duplicate copy of the certificate for your own records. Your certificate is valid for three (3) years.

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Step 2: Submit Your Fingerprints for Background Check

California requires all insurance license applicants to be fingerprinted, either before the exam or on the day of the exam. If you choose to get your fingerprints taken on the day of the exam, you can have it done at the exam site. You pay a required fee, and your prints are sent to the state for approval, which could take up to four weeks.

Step 3: Sit for and Pass the California State Licensing Exam

Now that you’ve completed your education, you are approved to sit for your state exam. California uses PSI to administer their insurance licensing exams. You need to contact PSI directly to schedule your exam. They can be reached at www.psiexams.com or 800.392.6422.

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Step 4: Apply for a California Insurance License

Congratulations! If you’ve made it this far, you are now ready to apply for your California license. You can submit your insurance license application online with the California Department of Insurance. 

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