Key Takeaways
- Colorado does NOT require pre-license education for Life and Health insurance, though it is strongly recommended
- PSI administers Colorado insurance exams at testing centers and via remote proctoring
- The Colorado Life and Health exam requires a 70% passing score
- Colorado requires fingerprinting for background checks on all license applicants
- License fees and exam fees are separate; licenses are valid for 2 years
Colorado Producer Licensing Requirements
Colorado has specific requirements for obtaining a Life and Health insurance producer license. Notably, Colorado does not require pre-license education.
Pre-License Education
Colorado's Unique Position
| Requirement | Colorado |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | NOT required |
| Recommended Prep | Self-study or prep courses |
| Exam Prep Courses | Available but optional |
Important: While Colorado does not mandate pre-license education, candidates are strongly encouraged to take preparatory courses to pass the exam. The exam covers extensive material that is difficult to learn without structured study.
Examination Requirements
The Colorado Life and Health examination:
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 150 (Life & Health combined) |
| Time Limit | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | Approximately $46 |
| Testing Provider | PSI Services LLC |
| Retake Policy | No mandatory waiting period |
Exam Content Breakdown
| Content Area | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Life Insurance | Approximately 50% |
| Health Insurance | Approximately 40% |
| Colorado State Law | Approximately 10% |
Exam Tip: Colorado requires a 70% passing score, which is standard among most states. Focus on both national concepts and Colorado-specific laws.
Examination Process
- Study using approved materials (self-study or courses)
- Schedule exam with PSI online or by phone
- 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
Colorado requires fingerprinting for all insurance license applicants:
Fingerprint Process
- Vendor: IdentoGO or approved vendor
- Timing: Must complete as part of application process
- Cost: Approximately $39-50
- Results: Submitted electronically to DOI and CBI (Colorado Bureau of Investigation)
Disqualifying Factors
The DOI 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. The DOI considers the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation.
License Application
After passing the exam:
- Submit application through NIPR (National Insurance Producer Registry)
- Pay license fee (approximately $55 for 2-year license)
- Complete background check if not already done
- Receive license after DOI review (typically 1-2 weeks)
License Types and Authority
| License Type | What You Can Sell |
|---|---|
| Life Insurance | Life insurance and annuities |
| Accident & Health (Sickness) | Health, disability, LTC insurance |
| Life, Accident & Health | All life and health products |
Resident vs. Non-Resident
- Resident License: For Colorado residents
- Non-Resident License: For producers licensed in home state
- Reciprocity: Colorado participates in NAIC reciprocity agreements
What is the passing score for the Colorado Life and Health insurance exam?
How many hours of pre-license education does Colorado require for a Life and Health license?
Who administers insurance licensing exams in Colorado?