Key Takeaways
- New York requires 40 hours of pre-license education for Life, Accident & Health insurance license
- PSI administers New York insurance licensing exams at testing centers and via remote proctoring
- The NY Life, Accident & Health exam has 150 questions with 70% passing score
- Fingerprinting is required for all NY insurance license applicants
- License fees are $40 for the initial license and licenses are valid for 2 years
New York Producer Licensing Requirements
New York has specific requirements for obtaining a Life, Accident & Health insurance producer license. The state has rigorous education and examination standards.
Pre-License Education Requirements
Required Hours
| License Type | Pre-License Hours |
|---|---|
| Life Only | 20 hours |
| Accident & Health Only | 20 hours |
| Life, Accident & Health | 40 hours |
Key Points:
- Pre-license courses must be completed at DFS-approved schools
- Course completion certificate is required before taking the exam
- Online and classroom options available
- Certificate valid for 2 years
Examination Requirements
The New York Life, Accident & Health examination:
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 150 |
| Time Limit | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Passing Score | 70% (105 correct) |
| Exam Fee | Approximately $60-75 |
| Testing Provider | PSI Services LLC |
| Retake Policy | No waiting period, pay new fee |
Note: New York's 70% passing score is standard among states. This is higher than some states that only require 60%.
Examination Process
- Complete pre-license education at approved school
- 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
New York requires fingerprinting for all insurance license applicants:
Fingerprint Process
- Vendor: IdentoGO (IDEMIA) or approved fingerprint vendor
- Timing: Should be completed before or shortly after passing exam
- Cost: Approximately $85-100
- Results: Submitted electronically to DFS
Disqualifying Factors
DFS 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. DFS considers the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation.
License Application
After passing the exam:
- Submit application through DFS online portal
- Pay license fee ($40 for initial license)
- Complete background check if not already done
- Receive license after DFS review (typically 2-4 weeks)
License Types and Authority
| License Type | What You Can Sell |
|---|---|
| Life Only | Life insurance and annuities |
| Accident & Health Only | Health, disability, LTC insurance |
| Life, Accident & Health | All life and health products |
Insurance Agent vs. Broker
- Agent: Represents one or more insurers, appointed by company
- Broker: Represents the consumer, not the insurer
- Both require separate license examinations in NY
- Brokers have additional bonding requirements
What is the passing score for the New York Life, Accident & Health insurance exam?
How many hours of pre-license education does New York require for a Life, Accident & Health license?
Who administers insurance licensing exams in New York?