Understanding the format of the New York insurance exam is an important first step, but success comes from thorough preparation. Candidates who understand the material, practice with realistic exam questions, and consistently score well on practice exams are generally better prepared for the state exam.
Our New York Insurance Courses provide state-approved pre-licensing education, exam preparation, and realistic practice exams designed to help you prepare with confidence.
Life, Accident & Health (17-55) Exam
The New York Life, Accident & Health (17-55) exam includes:
- 150 scored questions
- 5 to 10 experimental (unscored) questions
- 2 hours and 30 minutes of testing time
Because this exam covers multiple lines of authority, candidates should expect questions covering life insurance, health insurance, New York insurance laws, ethics, and licensing concepts. Experimental questions are mixed throughout the exam, so every question should be answered as though it contributes to your final score.
Life (17-51) Exam
The New York Life (17-51) exam includes:
- 100 scored questions
- 5 to 10 experimental (unscored) questions
- 2 hours of testing time
Although this exam is shorter than the combined Life, Accident & Health exam, candidates should still become familiar with the wording, pace, and overall format before scheduling their exam.
Accident & Health (17-52) Exam
The New York Accident & Health (17-52) exam includes:
- 100 scored questions
- 5 to 10 experimental (unscored) questions
- 2 hours of testing time
Candidates should expect questions covering health insurance concepts, policy provisions, New York insurance laws, ethics, and licensing requirements.
Experimental Questions
Each New York insurance exam may include 5 to 10 experimental questions that do not count toward your final score. According to the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin, these questions are included to help develop future licensing exams.
Because experimental questions are mixed throughout the exam, you will not know which questions are scored and which are experimental. For that reason, answer every question carefully and treat each one as though it contributes to your final score.
Testing Time
The amount of testing time depends on the license you are pursuing:
- Life, Accident & Health (17-55): 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Life (17-51): 2 hours
- Accident & Health (17-52): 2 hours
Understanding both the number of questions and the available testing time can help you develop an effective pace before exam day. Practicing under timed conditions can also help build confidence and reduce test-day anxiety.
Preparing for the Exam
Understanding the exam format is helpful, but success ultimately comes from preparation. We recommend:
- Completing your required pre-licensing education.
- Taking multiple timed practice exams.
- Reviewing explanations for missed questions.
- Spending additional study time on weaker subject areas.
- Consistently scoring at least 80% on practice exams before scheduling your state exam.
For additional study strategies and exam preparation tips, read our How to Pass the New York Insurance Exam article.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the New York insurance exam?
The number of questions depends on the license you are pursuing. The Life, Accident & Health (17-55) exam includes 150 scored questions, while the Life (17-51) and Accident & Health (17-52) exams each include 100 scored questions. All exams may also include 5 to 10 experimental questions that are not scored.
How many questions are on the New York Life insurance exam?
The Life (17-51) exam includes 100 scored questions, plus 5 to 10 experimental questions that do not count toward your final score.
How many questions are on the New York Accident & Health insurance exam?
The Accident & Health (17-52) exam includes 100 scored questions, plus 5 to 10 experimental questions that are not scored.
Do experimental questions count toward your score?
No. Experimental questions are included to help develop future licensing exams and do not affect your final score.
How much time do you have to complete the New York insurance exam?
Candidates taking the Life, Accident & Health (17-55) exam have 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete the exam. Candidates taking either the Life (17-51) or Accident & Health (17-52) exam have 2 hours.
Next Step: Prepare for the New York Insurance Exam
Knowing how many questions are on the New York insurance exam is only one part of preparing for success. Becoming familiar with the exam format, practicing under timed conditions, and completing a state-approved pre-licensing course can help you prepare more effectively and improve your chances of passing the exam.
Before scheduling your exam, review our New York Insurance Exam: What to Expect, How to Prepare, and How to Pass article. When you’re ready, explore our New York Insurance Courses to complete your required pre-licensing education and prepare for the New York insurance exam.
