Kentucky

Kentucky Insurance Prelicensing Requirements
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How to Obtain a Kentucky Insurance License

The State of Kentucky requires all individuals selling insurance to obtain a valid insurance producer license. This guide outlines the step-by-step process for obtaining your Kentucky insurance license.

Step 1: Fulfill Prelicensing Education Requirements

Before taking the state licensing exam, you must complete a prelicensing education course approved by the Kentucky Department of Insurance (DOI). The required hours vary based on the line of authority:

Line of AuthorityRequired Hours
Life Insurance20 hours
Health Insurance20 hours
Property Insurance20 hours
Casualty Insurance20 hours
Personal Lines20 hours

Certification Exam & Completion Certificate:

  • After completing your coursework, you must pass a Certification Exam with a 70% or higher.
  • Upon passing, you will receive a Certificate of Completion, which is valid for one year.
  • Prelicensing education must be completed before taking the licensing exam.
  • Certificates must be signed and dated before submission to the DOI.

Step 2: Apply for a Background Check

Kentucky requires all applicants to submit a Criminal Background Report through the KY Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC).

How to Apply for a Background Check:

  1. Select “One-Time Request” to receive the report by mail, then submit it via email or upload it to KY eServices.
  2. Use “AOCFastCheck” to order and retrieve reports online.
  3. Follow these selections in your request:
    • Category: Licensing
    • Group: Dept of Insurance (DOI)
    • Reason: Licensing
  4. Pay the nonrefundable fee via credit card or electronic check.
  5. Retrieve your background check report from the Kentucky Court of Justice website.
  6. Submit the report via email or through your KY eServices account.

Background reports are valid for 60 days and are typically processed within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.

Step 3: Apply for Your Insurance License

After completing your background check, submit an electronic application through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR).

Application Process:

  • Apply online at www.nipr.com.
  • Pay the required licensing fee (nonrefundable).
  • Processing time is up to 5 business days.
  • Within 24 hours of submitting your application, create a KY eServices account to track your application and schedule exams.

Step 4: Pass the State Licensing Exam

You must pass the Kentucky insurance licensing exam before receiving your license.

Exam Details:

  • Schedule your exam online through KY eServices.
  • Pay the required exam fee.
  • Additional fees apply for retaking the exam.
  • Arrive 15 minutes early for in-person exams.
  • Results are available immediately after the exam.

Exam Policies:

  • No cell phones, smartwatches, or personal items allowed during the exam.
  • Unlimited attempts within a 120-day period.
  • Exam rescheduling must be done at least 24 hours before the test.

Step 5: Print Your License

Once your test results are submitted, log in to KY eServices to print your license.

Step 6: Maintain Your License with Continuing Education (CE)

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

CE Requirements:

  • 24 hours of CE, including 3 hours of ethics training.
  • Additional CE requirements apply for those selling annuities and long-term care (LTC) insurance.
  • Nonresident producers must meet their home state’s CE requirements.
  • If CE requirements are not met, your license will lapse.

Visit the Kentucky Department of Insurance website for the most up-to-date CE guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does the Kentucky insurance exam cost?

  • Exam fees are set by the Kentucky Department of Insurance and updated periodically.

How much is the Kentucky insurance licensing fee?

  • Licensing fees are updated by the Kentucky DOI and were last revised in 2019.

Where will I take the state exam?

  • Exams must be taken at an approved testing location.

What do I need to bring to the exam?

  • A valid government-issued photo ID.

What is the format of the state exam?

  • Exams are computer-based, multiple-choice.
  • The exam includes:
    • A general section covering basic insurance concepts.
    • A state-specific section covering Kentucky insurance laws and regulations.
  • Practice exams are recommended to help familiarize yourself with the format.

How long is the state exam?

  • Each exam consists of 150 questions and has a 190-minute time limit.

What score do I need to pass?

  • A minimum passing score of 70% is required.
  • Results are provided immediately after completion.

Contact Information

Kentucky Department of Insurance:

National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR):

Start Your Insurance Prelicensing Training

Take the first step toward your Kentucky insurance career today. Enroll in an approved prelicensing course to begin your journey!

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Disclaimer

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