How to get a California insurance license

Step 1: Prepare for the California insurance license exam

Our California insurance exam prep courses cover the insurance concepts, definitions, laws, and agent regulations listed on the California License Examination Objectives.

Effective January 1, 2026, California separated the required 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course from insurance exam preparation. While insurance exam prep is no longer required by the state, many students still prepare before taking the PSI licensing exam.

California requires all applicants to complete a 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course before a license can be issued. This requirement is separate from insurance exam preparation and must be completed prior to license issuance.

Our California insurance exam prep courses include the required 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course.

National Online Insurance School provides the following California insurance exam prep courses and required 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course.

Step 2: Pass the California Insurance License Exam

Once you are ready to take the state exam, register with PSI Services to schedule your California insurance licensing exam. Exam appointments can be scheduled on the PSI website or by calling (833) 518-7456.

Expected cost

$98.00

About the state exam

• You are required to provide a current form of identification with a photo (driver's license, passport, etc.) that exactly matches the name on the exam registration at the testing center. You are not required to present your Certificate of Course Completion.
• California insurance licensing exams can be taken at a PSI testing center or through PSI's remote online proctored testing option.
• You should arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment to allow time for check-in procedures. If you arrive late you will not be allowed to take your exam and will forfeit your exam fee.
• Applicants with disabilities should make special arrangements prior to registering for the state exam by contacting the testing administrator at (833) 518-7456
• Passing score is 60%

Learn more about the exam format, testing process, and what to expect on exam day in our California Insurance Exam: What to Expect and How to Pass guide.

Step 3: Complete an Insurance License Application

After passing the California insurance licensing exam, you can submit an insurance license application through the California Department of Insurance. Click the button below and follow the steps to complete the online application.

License qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• A resident of the state of California
• Complete the required 12-hour Ethics & California Insurance Code course
• Pass the state insurance exam for the lines of authority for which you are applying
• Must not have committed any act that is a ground for denial, suspension, or revocation of license.

Expected cost

Application Fee: $188.00

Step 4: Submit Electronic Fingerprints

All unlicensed California resident applicants are required to submit electronic fingerprints. They should be submitted after filing the insurance license application, or soon afterward, so the California Department of Insurance can receive the results required to complete the licensing process.

Applicants who have previously submitted fingerprints should review the California Department of Insurance's current fingerprint requirements to determine whether another set is required. If the insurance license is not issued within 12 months of submitting fingerprints, a new set will be required.

Expected cost

$74.00