How to Get a Life and Health Insurance License in Tennessee

The steps in Tennessee

1. Prepare for the examTennessee does not require a pre-licensing course. Most people still use an online prep course and practice exams.
2. Pass the state examExams are run by Pearson VUE. You take a separate life exam and health exam. You need a score of 70 to pass.
3. Get fingerprintedTennessee requires fingerprints for a background check.
4. Apply for your licenseWait 48 hours after passing, then apply online through NIPR. One $50 fee covers both lines; NIPR adds about $5.60.
5. 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	Not required (optional prep, often $50 to $350)
State exam	$55 per attempt, 2 exams ($110 total)
Fingerprints	Required, about $50 (the vendor sets the price)
License fee	$50
Typical total	$210 to $670

The low end assumes you pass the first time without a paid 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

• Taking both exams online through Pearson VUE's OnVUE is listed at $80 together, less than two test-center exams. Get fingerprinted at IdentoGO at least 2 business days before you apply.
• After you are licensed: 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years, including 3 hours of ethics.

Official sources

• Tennessee resident licensing requirements
• pearsonvue.com/content/dam/VUE/vue/en/documents/publications/124300.pdf
• tn.gov/commerce/insurance/agent-producer-resources/licensing-packets-instructions-forms/producer-with-exams.html

New to licensing? Start with How to Get Your Life and Health Insurance License for the full picture.

Checked against official Tennessee sources in October 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the Tennessee insurance department before you pay. This is general information, not licensing advice.