How to Obtain a Texas Life and Health Insurance License

Texas-specific licensing requirements

To sell life or health insurance in Texas you must hold a state‑issued license. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) requires completing a pre‑licensing course approved by the department, passing the respective exam, and submitting an application with a background check and fee.

Complete an approved pre‑licensing course

Enroll in a TDI‑approved 20‑hour course for life insurance and a separate 20‑hour course for health insurance, or a combined 40‑hour program. Courses can be taken online or in a classroom and must cover topics such as policy types, underwriting, ethics, and Texas insurance regulations.

Pass the state exams

After finishing the coursework, schedule the exam through Pearson VUE. The life exam consists of 100 multiple‑choice questions; you need at least 70 % to pass. The health exam (often called the health or annuity exam) also has 100 questions with the same passing score. You may retake an exam after a 48‑hour waiting period.

Submit the license application

Log into the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) or TDI's online portal, complete the application, and upload proof of course completion. You'll also need to:

• Pay the licensing fee ($55 for life, $55 for health, plus a $25 processing fee)
• Authorize a fingerprint‑based background check
• Provide a Social Security number and any prior licensing information

Once approved, you'll receive an electronic license and can begin selling under a sponsoring agency.

Maintain the license

Texas requires 24 continuing education (CE) credits every two years, including a 2‑hour ethics module. CE can be earned through approved providers, webinars, or conferences. Failure to complete CE results in a lapse of the license.

Key timelines and costs