$410 to $808typical total, before any agency reimbursement
12 hoursof pre-licensing study
$98for the exam, per attempt
The steps in California
- Take the 12-hour pre-licensing courseSince January 1, 2026, California only requires the 12-hour Ethics and California Insurance Code course (the old 20 hours per line is gone). You can take the exam first, but finish the course before your license is issued.
- Pass the state examExams are run by PSI. You take one combined life and health exam. You need a score of 60 to pass.
- Get fingerprintedCalifornia requires fingerprints for a background check, about $74.
- Apply for your licenseApply online through NIPR or Sircon. One $188 filing fee covers life and accident and health when you apply for both together; the application site adds a small transaction fee.
- Get appointedThe insurance companies you will represent appoint you. When you join an agency, it usually handles this for you.
What it costs
| Pre-licensing course | $50 to $350 (set by the course provider) |
| State exam | $98 per attempt |
| Fingerprints | $74 |
| License fee | $188 |
| Typical total | $410 to $808 |
|---|
The low end assumes you pass the first time with a budget course. The high end includes a full-price course and one retake. Many agencies cover or reimburse licensing costs, so ask before you buy anything.
Estimate my exact cost
Good to know
- The exam is $55 from the state plus a $43 PSI fee at its test centers and for remote testing, so most people pay $98. Fingerprints are by Live Scan after you apply. Selling annuities takes an extra 8-hour annuity course.
- After you are licensed: 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years, including 3 hours of ethics.
Official sources
New to licensing? Start with How to Get Your Life and Health Insurance License for the full picture.
Checked against official California sources in October 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the California insurance department before you pay. This is general information, not licensing advice.
Also hiring: remote insurance roles
Work from home on your own hours
Full-time or part-time, helping families find the right coverage, with training, a mentor, and help getting licensed.
