In Louisiana, becoming a licensed auto insurance producer requires completing the state's pre‑licensing education, passing the LICO‑55 exam, and submitting a fingerprint‑based background check through the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI). Unlike many states, Louisiana mandates a separate agency appointment for each insurer and requires agents to maintain a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education every two years.
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Key Requirements
The core steps are the same for all lines of insurance, but auto‑specific licensing adds a few nuances.
- Age 18 or older and a legal resident of the United States.
- Pass the LICO‑55 (Louisiana Insurance Consumer Orientation) exam with a score of at least 70%.
- Complete 20 hours of state‑approved pre‑licensing coursework, including 3 hours of ethics.
- Submit fingerprints and a background check through the Louisiana State Police.
- Secure an appointment with at least one licensed insurer before the license becomes active.
Step‑by‑Step Process
1. Pre‑licensing Education
Enroll in a LDI‑approved online or classroom course. The curriculum covers Louisiana insurance law, policy forms, and consumer protection rules specific to auto coverage.
2. Register for the LICO‑55 Exam
Schedule the exam through PSI, the state‑approved testing vendor. The test is administered electronically, and results are available immediately.
3. Submit Application and Fingerprints
After passing, log into the LDI's online portal, complete the Producer License Application (Form 1000), and upload fingerprint results. The fee is $125 for the license plus $30 for the background check.
4. Obtain Agency Appointment
Contact an insurer that offers auto policies in Louisiana and sign an appointment agreement. The insurer will verify your license status before granting access to their quoting system.
5. Activate and Maintain the License
Once the appointment is recorded, the license is active. Renew annually, and complete the required 24‑hour continuing education cycle every two years to stay compliant.
Comparative Overview of Licensing Elements
| Element | Louisiana Requirement | Typical U.S. Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Pre‑licensing Hours | 20 hours (incl. 3 ethics) | 12–20 hours, varies by state |
| Exam Score Minimum | 70% | 70–80% common |
| Continuing Education | 24 hours/2 years | 24–30 hours/2 years |
| Fingerprint Background Check | Mandatory | Mandatory in most states |
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Skipping the ethics portion of the pre‑licensing course will invalidate your exam eligibility. Also, failing to secure an insurer appointment before the license activation date can delay your ability to write policies. Finally, keep your contact information current in the LDI portal; missed renewal notices can lead to an involuntary lapse.
Resources
Louisiana Department of Insurance website (ldi.la.gov) provides downloadable forms, exam schedules, and a list of approved education providers. PSI's test center locator helps you find a convenient testing site.