Key Takeaways
- Act 142 (April 2025) eliminated the pre-license education requirement for Pennsylvania P&C insurance licenses
- The Pennsylvania P&C exam requires a 70% passing score
- PSI administers Pennsylvania insurance exams at testing centers statewide and via remote proctoring
- All applicants must complete a background check for licensure
- License application includes a $55 exam fee plus licensing fees
Pennsylvania P&C Producer Licensing Requirements
Pennsylvania has specific requirements for obtaining a Property & Casualty insurance producer license. Significant changes went into effect in April 2025 under Act 142.
Act 142 Changes (Effective April 2025)
Act 142 made major changes to Pennsylvania insurance licensing:
Key Changes
| Before Act 142 | After Act 142 (April 2025) |
|---|---|
| Pre-license education required | No pre-license education required |
| Hours varied by license type | N/A |
| Must complete before exam | Can go directly to exam |
Important: Pennsylvania no longer requires pre-license education for P&C insurance licenses as of April 2025. Candidates can schedule their exam immediately.
Examination Requirements
The Pennsylvania Property & Casualty examination:
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | $55 |
| Testing Provider | PSI Services LLC |
| Retake Policy | Must wait 24 hours, pay new fee |
| Exam Format | Computer-based, multiple choice |
License Lines Available
| License Type | What You Can Sell |
|---|---|
| Property | Fire, homeowners, commercial property |
| Casualty | Liability, auto, surety bonds |
| Property & Casualty | All property and casualty products |
| Personal Lines | Auto and homeowners only |
Exam Content Areas
The Pennsylvania P&C exam covers:
- General insurance concepts
- Property insurance principles
- Casualty insurance principles
- Pennsylvania insurance laws and regulations
- Ethics and producer conduct
Exam Tip: Although pre-license education is no longer required, self-study is strongly recommended. The 70% passing score is higher than some states.
Examination Process
- Schedule exam with PSI online at psiexams.com or call
- Choose testing option: Physical PSI testing center OR remote proctored exam
- Bring valid ID with photo and signature (driver's license, passport)
- Take exam - computer-based, results immediate
- Apply for license within 12 months of passing
Background Check Requirements
Pennsylvania requires a background check for all insurance license applicants:
Background Check Process
- Criminal History - Reviewed by the Department
- Disclosure Required - Must disclose criminal history on application
- Timing - Processed as part of license application
- Disqualifying Offenses - Crimes involving fraud, dishonesty, breach of trust
Disqualifying Factors
The Department considers:
- Crimes involving fraud, dishonesty, or breach of trust
- Felonies within certain time periods
- Insurance-related violations
- Administrative actions by other states
- Pattern of criminal behavior
License Application
After passing the exam:
| Step | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Through NIPR (National Insurance Producer Registry) |
| Application Fee | Varies by license type |
| Processing Time | Typically 2-4 weeks |
| Background Check | Included in application process |
Agent vs. Broker
Pennsylvania distinguishes between:
- Producer/Agent: Represents one or more insurers, appointed by company
- Surplus Lines Broker: Licensed to place coverage with non-admitted insurers
- Both require appropriate license and examination
What is the passing score for the Pennsylvania Property & Casualty insurance exam?
What did Act 142 (effective April 2025) change regarding Pennsylvania P&C licensing?