Editing Insurance licensing in the United States (section)

== Licensing Process ==
The general licensing process involves the following steps:

=== 1. Pre-Licensing Education ===
* Many states require a minimum number of classroom or online hours before taking the state exam (e.g., 20–40 hours for life/health)

=== 2. Background Check & Fingerprinting ===
* Required in most states
* Conducted through authorized vendors

=== 3. State Exam ===
* Computer-based exam administered through vendors like Pearson VUE or Prometric
* Passing score typically 70%

=== 4. License Application ===
* Filed through the state’s Department of Insurance or via the **NIPR** (National Insurance Producer Registry)

=== 5. Carrier Appointment ===
* Required before you can legally sell policies for a specific insurance company