Michigan Life and Health Insurance License at a Glance
Michigan requires agents selling life or health insurance to hold a state-issued license issued through the Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS). The process blends mandated education, a state-specific exam, and a background check. While the basics mirror other states, Michigan has its own course hours, exam structure, and renewal rules that shape how quickly and affordably someone can enter the market.
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Pre-Licensing Education Requirements
Before applying to test, candidates must complete pre-licensing education from a Michigan-approved provider. The required hours depend on the line of authority:
- Life insurance only: 20 hours of coursework.
- Health insurance only: 20 hours of coursework.
- Life and health combined: 40 hours total, with the health portion meeting Michigan's specific health insurance content rules.
Courses must cover state-specific topics including Michigan insurance regulations, ethics, and product types. Completion certificates are submitted electronically to the state when applying for the exam.
Michigan Insurance Exam Structure
The Michigan life and health insurance exam is administered by PSI Services and consists of two distinct parts, which candidates can schedule together or separately:
| Exam Section | Questions | Time Allowed | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Life Insurance | 50 scored (plus 5 pretest) | 1 hour 30 minutes | 70% |
| Health Insurance | 50 scored (plus 5 pretest) | 1 hour 30 minutes | 70% |
Questions are drawn from a Michigan-specific exam content outline. Candidates receive their pass/fail result immediately upon completing the test. If one section is failed, only that section must be retaken.
Application, Background Check, and Fees
After passing the exam, applicants submit their license application through the Michigan DIFS online portal. The process includes:
- Filing fingerprints for a criminal background check.
- Paying the state application and licensing fees, which total roughly $150 to $200 depending on the lines requested.
- Sponsorship by a Michigan-licensed insurance company or adjusting firm.
Temporary licenses may be issued while the background check is processed, allowing candidates to begin selling under supervision.
Continuing Education and Renewal
Michigan life and health licenses must be renewed biennially. During each renewal period, licensees must complete 24 hours of continuing education, including at least 3 hours of ethics and 3 hours of state-specific Michigan law. Failing to meet these requirements by the renewal deadline results in lapsed status, requiring reinstatement or re-examination depending on how long the license has been inactive.
Special Considerations for Michigan Agents
Because Michigan regulates insurance markets closely, agents should pay attention to state-specific health plan rules and the Michigan insurance code's consumer protection provisions. The DIFS website publishes the most current outlines, forms, and regulatory bulletins, which can affect product availability and disclosure obligations year over year.