The California insurance exam is required to become a licensed insurance agent in California. Administered by PSI, the exam tests knowledge of insurance concepts, policy provisions, and California-specific regulations.
California does not require a full pre-licensing course before taking the exam. However, a 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course must be completed as part of the licensing process before a license can be issued. Understanding the exam format, topics, and expectations can help you prepare effectively before scheduling your test.
What Is the California Insurance Exam (PSI)?
The California insurance exam is the state licensing test for applicants seeking a Life, Accident & Health, or combined Life, Accident & Health or Sickness license.
A passing score is required before moving forward with the licensing process. The exam tests knowledge of insurance concepts, policy provisions, California insurance laws, and agent responsibilities. For a full breakdown, review the California insurance license requirements.
California Insurance Exam Format
The California insurance exam is multiple-choice and timed. The number of questions and time limits depend on the license type.
- Life, Accident & Health or Sickness: 150 scored questions and 10 pre-test questions, 3 hours 15 minutes
- Life: 75 scored questions and 5 pre-test questions, 1 hour 45 minutes
- Accident & Health or Sickness: 75 scored questions and 5 pre-test questions, 1 hour 45 minutes
The passing score is 60 percent.
Results are provided after the exam is completed.
Some questions on the California insurance exam are unscored pre-test questions. These questions are used to evaluate future exam content and do not affect your final score. Because they are not identified during the exam, it is important to answer every question carefully.
What Is Covered on the California Insurance Exam?
The exam is based on the California License Examination Objectives. Tested material includes:
- Basic insurance concepts and principles
- Policy types and provisions
- California insurance laws and regulations
- Agent duties and ethical responsibilities
The exam measures how well these topics are understood and applied.
Do You Need a Course to Take the California Insurance Exam?
California does not require a full pre-licensing course before taking the exam.
A 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course is still required before a license can be issued.
Many candidates still prepare before scheduling the exam by:
- Reviewing tested concepts
- Practicing exam-style questions
- Identifying weaker areas
Preparation improves familiarity with the exam format and increases the likelihood of passing.
How to Schedule the California Insurance Exam
The California insurance exam must be scheduled through PSI. Registration must be completed before selecting a test date, time, and location.
Before scheduling the exam, it is important to be comfortable with the exam format, timing, and tested material.
How to Pass the California Insurance Exam
Passing the exam depends on preparation and familiarity with the question format.
A strong study approach includes:
- Practicing exam-style questions
- Understanding key concepts instead of relying only on memorization
- Reviewing missed questions to identify weak areas
- Managing time during practice exams
Consistent practice with exam-style questions is one of the most effective ways to improve performance before test day.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Applicants must present a valid government-issued photo ID that matches the name used during registration.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled appointment to allow time for check-in. Late arrivals are not permitted to test and will forfeit the exam fee.
The exam may be taken at a PSI testing center or through remote online proctoring, depending on availability at the time of scheduling.
Applicants who need accommodations should make arrangements before the exam appointment.
If the exam is not passed, it may be retaken by scheduling a new appointment and paying the exam fee again.
Before You Schedule the Exam
Before registering for the California insurance exam, make sure:
- The exam format and time limits are understood
- Sufficient practice questions have been completed
- Passing scores are consistently achieved on practice exams
If practice scores are below passing, continue preparing before scheduling the test. If unsure, review how hard is the insurance license exam.
Next Step: Start Preparing for the Exam
The California insurance exam tests both insurance knowledge and understanding of California-specific rules.
Explore our California insurance exam prep options to get started.
For a full breakdown of licensing steps, review our California insurance license requirements guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the California insurance exam?
The exam requires preparation. Applicants who review key concepts and complete practice questions are more likely to pass. For additional guidance, review how long should you study for the insurance exam.
How many questions are on the California insurance exam?
The combined Life, Accident & Health or Sickness exam includes 150 scored questions and 10 pre-test questions. The Life exam and the Accident & Health or Sickness exam each include 75 scored questions and 5 pre-test questions.
How long is the California insurance exam?
The exam time depends on the license type. The combined Life, Accident & Health or Sickness exam is 3 hours 15 minutes. The Life exam and the Accident & Health or Sickness exam are each 1 hour 45 minutes.
What score is needed to pass the California insurance exam?
A score of 60 percent is required to pass.
How many times can you take the California insurance exam?
There is no set limit on the number of attempts. If the exam is not passed, it can be retaken by scheduling a new appointment and paying the exam fee again.
Where do you take the California insurance exam?
The exam is primarily taken at a PSI testing center. In some cases, remote online proctoring may be available depending on scheduling availability at the time of registration.
Is pre-licensing education required in California?
No. California does not require pre-licensing education before taking the state licensing exam. However, a 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course is required before a license can be issued. While pre-licensing education is not required, it is still highly recommended to prepare with an exam prep course that includes the required 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course and offers exam-style practice exams.
For more information, view our California insurance exam prep options.
