Iowa

Iowa Insurance Prelicensing Requirements
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How to Obtain an Iowa Insurance License

Becoming a licensed insurance agent in Iowa requires completing several essential steps, including prelicensing education, passing the state exam, 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 Iowa insurance licensing exam, you must complete a state-approved prelicensing education course.

Key Notes:

  • Prelicensing courses are available online and may include web classes, study manuals, and flashcards.
  • Your prelicensing course must be completed before attempting the state exam.

Step 2: Pass the Licensing Exam

Once you complete the prelicensing education, you must pass the Iowa insurance licensing exam.

Exam Details:

  • Administered by Pearson VUE.
  • Register online at Pearson VUE or call (877) 540-5825.
  • Exams are computer-based and multiple-choice.
  • A 70% or higher score is required to pass.
  • Test results are provided immediately after completion.

Exam Length & Question Breakdown:

Exam TypeTime LimitNumber of Questions
Life Insurance Exam2 hours87
Accident & Health Exam2 hours95
Personal Lines Exam2 hours123
Commercial Lines Exam2 hours92
Property Exam2 hours93
Casualty Exam2 hours95
Public Adjusters Exam1 hour50
Crop Insurance Exam1 hour50
Viatical Settlement Exam1 hour50
Navigator Exam1 hour50

Exam Policies:

  • 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.
  • Candidates are allowed one remote exam attempt. Any subsequent attempts must be taken in person at a Pearson VUE testing center.

Step 3: Apply for Your Insurance License

After passing the state exam, you must apply for your Iowa 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 90 days of passing the exam.

Step 4: Maintain Your License with Continuing Education (CE)

To keep your Iowa insurance license active, you must complete continuing education (CE) every three years.

CE Requirements:

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

For the latest CE updates, visit the Iowa Insurance Division website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I take the Iowa licensing exam?

  • Exams can be taken in-person at Pearson VUE testing centers or remotely via OnVUE.

How do I schedule my licensing exam?

  • You can schedule your exam through Pearson VUE by visiting their website or calling (877) 540-5825. Exam fees must be paid at the time of reservation.

What happens if I fail my exam?

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

What entity oversees licensing in Iowa?

  • The Iowa Insurance Division manages agent licensing, renewals, and continuing education. For inquiries, call (515) 654-6600.

Contact Information

Iowa Insurance Division:

Pearson VUE:

Start Your Insurance Prelicensing Training

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

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Disclaimer

The information provided here is based on current Iowa state regulations and may be subject to updates. We strive for accuracy but recommend verifying requirements with the Iowa Insurance Division for the latest licensing details.