District of Columbia

District of Columbia Insurance Prelicensing Requirements
Provider Number: [Enter Provider Number]

How to Obtain a District of Columbia Insurance License

Becoming a licensed insurance agent in Washington D.C. requires completing several essential steps, including prelicensing education, passing the state exam, undergoing fingerprinting, applying for your license, and fulfilling continuing education requirements. This guide outlines each step in detail to help you navigate the licensing process efficiently.

Step 1: Fulfill Prelicensing Education Requirements

Before taking the D.C. insurance licensing exam, you must complete a state-approved prelicensing education course. The required study hours vary based on the line of authority you choose:

Line of AuthorityRequired Hours
Life Insurance20 hours
Health Insurance20 hours
Property Insurance20 hours
Casualty Insurance20 hours
Life & Health Combined40 hours
Property & Casualty40 hours

Key Notes:

  • Prelicensing courses are available online, with optional webinars and supplemental learning materials.
  • Your course provider must track course completion time.
  • You will receive a Certificate of Completion upon finishing the required study hours.
  • Certificates are valid for 12 months from the date of issuance.

Step 2: Schedule and Pass the Licensing Exam

After completing your prelicensing education, you must pass the D.C. state licensing exam.

Exam Details:

  • Administered by Pearson VUE.
  • Registration is available online at Pearson VUE or by calling (800) 274-0610.
  • Exams are computer-based and consist of multiple-choice questions.
  • A 70% or higher score is required to pass.
  • Test results are available immediately after completion.

Exam Length & Question Breakdown:

Exam TypeTime LimitNumber of Questions
Life Exam2 hours90
Health Exam2 hours85
Property Exam2 hours85
Casualty Exam2 hours90
Title Exam1.5 hours80

How to Prepare for the Exam:

  • Arrive 30 minutes early at the testing center.
  • Bring a valid government-issued photo ID.
  • No personal items (phones, watches, calculators, etc.) are allowed in the testing room.

If you fail the exam, you may reschedule immediately and review the diagnostic report for study guidance.

Step 3: Complete Fingerprinting

The District of Columbia requires all resident and nonresident applicants to complete fingerprinting for a background check.

Fingerprinting Process:

  • Conducted through Fieldprint.
  • Schedule an appointment by contacting Sheila Johnson-Parker via email.
  • Ensure fingerprinting is completed before applying for your license.

Step 4: Apply for Your Insurance License

Once you have passed the exam, you must apply for your Washington D.C. insurance license through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) at www.nipr.com.

Application Process:

  • Submit your application via NIPR and pay the required fee.
  • Applications must be submitted within 24 hours of passing the exam.
  • A criminal background check is required as part of the application process.

Step 5: Maintain Your License with Continuing Education (CE)

To keep your D.C. insurance license active, you must complete continuing education (CE) every two years.

CE Requirements:

  • 24 hours of CE required for most license types, including 3 hours of ethics training.
  • Additional CE requirements may apply for those selling long-term care insurance or annuities.
  • Nonresident agents must comply with their home state’s CE requirements.

For the latest CE updates, visit the D.C. Department of Insurance website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I take the D.C. licensing exam?

Exams are taken in-person at Pearson VUE testing centers. Online examinations are currently not available.

How do I schedule my licensing exam?

  • You can schedule your exam through Pearson VUE by visiting their website or calling (800) 274-0610. Exam fees must be paid at the time of reservation.

What happens if I fail my exam?

  • You can reschedule your exam immediately after failing. Review your diagnostic report and use additional study materials to improve your score before retaking the exam.

What entity oversees licensing in Washington D.C.?

  • The Producer Licensing Division of the D.C. Department of Insurance manages agent licensing, renewals, and continuing education. For inquiries, call (202) 442-7813.

What happens after I apply for my license?

  • After successfully applying, you must be appointed by an insurance company to legally sell policies on their behalf. You cannot act as an agent without an appointment from at least one company.

Contact Information

District of Columbia Department of Insurance:

  • Phone: (202) 442-7813
  • Website: www.disb.dc.gov
  • Mailing Address:
    District of Columbia Department of Insurance
    1050 First Street, NE, Suite 801
    Washington, DC 20002

Pearson VUE:

Start Your Insurance Prelicensing Training

Take the first step toward your D.C. insurance career by enrolling in a state-approved prelicensing course today.

[Start Your Course Now]

Disclaimer

The information provided here is based on current District of Columbia regulations and may be subject to updates. We strive for accuracy but recommend verifying requirements with the D.C. Department of Insurance for the latest licensing details.