Key Takeaways
- Washington no longer requires pre-licensing education (effective July 23, 2023)
- The Life, Accident and Health exam has 150 questions with 3 hours 55 minutes and 70% passing score
- PSI administers Washington insurance licensing exams
- Washington calls health insurance "disability" - you need a Life and Disability license
- Fingerprinting required at exam site or after passing
Washington Life & Health Insurance Exam
Welcome to the Washington Life & Health Insurance Exam study guide. This comprehensive resource covers Washington-specific insurance laws, regulations, and practices required for your state licensing exam.
About Washington's Life & Health License
Washington requires insurance producers to pass the Life, Accident and Health Insurance examination to sell life and health insurance products in the state. The license is regulated by the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC), which oversees all insurance activities in Washington.
Important Terminology
Note: Unlike most states where the license is called "Life & Health," in Washington, health insurance is covered under disability. You will be seeking a Life and Disability insurance license.
What This Exam Covers
This guide focuses exclusively on Washington state law and regulations:
- Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner structure and authority
- State licensing requirements and procedures
- Revised Code of Washington Title 48 provisions
- Life insurance laws and policy requirements in Washington
- Health/Disability insurance regulations specific to Washington
- State consumer protections and disclosures
- Washington-specific policy provisions and endorsements
- Ethics and professional conduct under Washington law
national Life & Health exam preparationFree exam prep with practice questions & AI tutor
Exam Structure
Life, Accident and Health Insurance Exam
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 150 |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Time Limit | 3 hours 55 minutes (235 minutes) |
| Test Provider | PSI Services LLC |
| Format | Multiple choice, computer-based |
Exam Fees
| Exam Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Single Line (Life or Health) | $35 |
| Combined Lines | $52 |
Pre-License Education Requirements
Effective July 23, 2023, Washington no longer requires pre-licensing education to take your insurance exam:
- No required classroom hours
- No mandated online courses
- No certificate of completion needed
Recommended Preparation
Although not required, the Washington OIC recommends:
- 20 hours of study for each line of authority
- Curriculum based on exam content outlines
- Completing a voluntary pre-licensing course
Note: Pre-licensing education (PLE) is no longer required, but it is highly recommended to prepare for the state insurance exam.
Exam Registration
Schedule your exam with PSI:
- Options: Physical PSI testing center or remote online proctored exam
Exam Day Requirements
On exam day, you must bring:
- Two valid forms of government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, military ID)
- One ID must contain your name and photograph
You will NOT be able to take the exam without these requirements.
Fingerprinting Requirements
Washington requires fingerprinting and background checks:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Timing | May be completed at exam site at time of appointment or after |
| Purpose | Background check required by OIC |
| For | All insurance licensing candidates |
License Application Process
After passing the exam:
- Complete Fingerprinting: At exam site or schedule separately
- Submit Application: Through NIPR or state system
- Pay License Fee: Application fee required
- Background Check: OIC reviews results
- License Issued: Valid for 2 years
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your Washington Life & Health license:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Hours | 24 hours every 2 years |
| Ethics Hours | 3 hours in ethics (required) |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years |
Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner
The OIC regulates insurance in Washington:
Contact Information
- Website: insurance.wa.gov
- Phone: (360) 725-7000 or (800) 562-6900
- Address: P.O. Box 40255, Olympia, WA 98504-0255
What This Study Guide Covers
This guide is organized into the following chapters:
- Chapter 1: Washington Insurance Regulation & Licensing
- Chapter 2: Washington Life Insurance Laws
- Chapter 3: Washington Health/Disability Insurance Laws
- Chapter 4: Washington Policy Provisions & Consumer Protections
- Chapter 5: Ethics & Professional Conduct
- Chapter 6: Washington Guaranty Associations & Special Programs
Work through each chapter systematically, complete all practice questions, and review key takeaways until you can recall them confidently.
Study Recommendations
Timeline
6-8 Weeks Before Exam:
- Begin studying Washington insurance law and RCW Title 48
- Review national Life & Health concepts
- Take diagnostic practice tests
4 Weeks Before Exam:
- Focus on weak areas identified
- Complete practice quizzes daily
- Memorize key Washington requirements
2 Weeks Before Exam:
- Take full-length practice exams
- Review Washington-specific regulations
- Schedule your exam with PSI
1 Week Before Exam:
- Final review of key topics
- Focus on Washington laws and rules
- Get adequate rest
Test-Taking Tips
Before the Exam
- Schedule exam with PSI
- Choose in-person or remote testing
- If in-person, arrive early at the test center
- Bring TWO valid forms of government-issued ID
- Plan for fingerprinting at exam site
During the Exam
- Read carefully: Every word matters
- Watch for negatives: "NOT", "EXCEPT", "LEAST"
- Eliminate wrong answers: Narrow choices
- Flag difficult questions: Return later
- Manage time: You have nearly 4 hours for 150 questions
- Don't overthink: Trust your preparation
After the Exam
- Results provided immediately
- Complete fingerprinting if not done at exam site
- Apply for license through NIPR
Disclaimer: This study guide is for educational purposes only and does not guarantee exam success. Always verify current regulations with the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner, as laws and requirements may change.
Does Washington require pre-licensing education before taking the Life & Health insurance exam?
What is unique about Washington's insurance licensing terminology?
How many questions are on the Washington Life, Accident and Health Insurance exam?
What is the passing score for Washington insurance licensing exams?
How many hours of continuing education does Washington require for license renewal?