Key Takeaways
- Effective January 2026 (AB 943): California only requires 12 hours of Ethics & CA Insurance Code pre-license education for all license types
- The California Life, Accident & Health exam has 150 questions with a 3-hour time limit and 60% passing score
- PSI administers California insurance exams at testing centers statewide and via remote proctoring
- All applicants must complete Live Scan fingerprinting for a background check before or after the exam
- Licenses are valid for 2 years with 24 hours of continuing education required for renewal
California Producer Licensing Requirements
California has specific requirements for obtaining a Life, Accident & Health insurance producer license. Starting January 1, 2026, California reduced some education requirements.
Pre-License Education Requirements
Current Requirements (Effective January 1, 2026)
AB 943 Changes: California eliminated the 20-hour line-specific pre-license education requirement effective January 1, 2026.
| License Type | Pre-License Hours |
|---|---|
| Life-Only | 12 hours (Ethics & CA Insurance Code only) |
| Accident & Health Only | 12 hours (Ethics & CA Insurance Code only) |
| Life, Accident & Health | 12 hours (Ethics & CA Insurance Code only) |
Key Points:
- Only the 12-hour Ethics and California Insurance Code course is now required
- The 12-hour course must include 1 hour of insurance fraud education
- Pre-license courses must be completed at CDI-approved schools
- Course completion certificate is valid for 3 years
- Online and classroom options available
Previous Requirements (Before January 2026)
| License Type | Pre-License Hours |
|---|---|
| Life-Only | 32 hours (20 line-specific + 12 Ethics) |
| Accident & Health Only | 32 hours (20 line-specific + 12 Ethics) |
| Life, Accident & Health | 52 hours (20+20 line-specific + 12 Ethics) |
Note: While pre-license education requirements were reduced, the exam content and passing requirements remain unchanged. Study is still strongly recommended.
Examination Requirements
The California Life, Accident & Health examination:
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 150 |
| Scored Questions | 150 |
| Time Limit | 3 hours |
| Passing Score | 60% (90 correct) |
| Exam Fee | $88 + $33 convenience fee = $121 |
| Testing Provider | PSI Services LLC |
| Retake Policy | No waiting period, pay new fee |
Note: California's 60% passing score is lower than many states that require 70%.
Examination Process
- Complete pre-license education at approved school
- Schedule exam with PSI online or call (833) 518-7456
- Exam options: Physical PSI testing center OR remote proctored exam
- Bring valid ID with photo (driver's license, passport, military ID)
- Receive results immediately after exam
Background Check Requirements
California requires Live Scan fingerprinting for all insurance license applicants:
Live Scan Process
- Vendor: Capital Live Scan (CLS) - effective February 2025
- Timing: Can complete before or after passing exam
- Cost: Approximately $49-75 depending on location
- Results: Submitted electronically to CDI and DOJ
Disqualifying Factors
CDI considers criminal history when evaluating license applications:
- Crimes involving fraud, dishonesty, or breach of trust
- Felonies substantially related to insurance activities
- Recent convictions (time elapsed matters)
- Pattern of criminal behavior
Note: A criminal record does not automatically disqualify an applicant. CDI considers the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation.
License Application
After passing the exam:
- Submit application through CDI's online system
- Pay license fee ($189 for 2-year license)
- Complete background check if not already done
- Receive license after CDI review (typically 2-4 weeks)
License Types and Authority
| License Type | What You Can Sell |
|---|---|
| Life-Only Agent | Life insurance and annuities |
| Accident & Health Agent | Health, disability, LTC insurance |
| Life, Accident & Health Agent | All life and health products |
| Life-Only Broker | Life products (independent) |
| Life, Accident & Health Broker | All products (independent) |
Agent vs. Broker
- Agent: Represents one or more insurers, appointed by company
- Broker: Represents the consumer, not the insurer
- Both require separate license and exam
What is the passing score for the California Life, Accident & Health insurance exam?
As of January 2026, how many hours of pre-license education does California require for a Life, Accident & Health license?
Who administers insurance licensing exams in California?