How many hours of pre-license education does California require for insurance agents?

12 hours for Life Agent and Accident and Health or Sickness Agent, as set by the California Department of Insurance (CDI), Producer Licensing Bureau - Education Unit.

Is an exam required to get licensed in California?

Our research of the California Department of Insurance (CDI), Producer Licensing Bureau - Education Unit rule does not show a required exam alongside the education hours. Confirm with the board before you apply.

Can I complete these hours online?

Yes. Our pre-license courses are delivered entirely online and self-paced, with a certificate of completion issued as soon as you finish.

How to get a Life Agent and Accident and Health or Sickness Agent license in California

The California Department of Insurance (CDI), Producer Licensing Bureau - Education Unit sets the education you must complete before it will license you. Here is the exact requirement, by license class.

California Department of Insurance (CDI), Producer Licensing Bureau - Education Unit

Required hours by license class

Life Agent and Accident and Health or Sickness Agent

12 required hours

We have researched this requirement and are building the course now.

Source: California Department of Insurance (CDI), Producer Licensing Bureau - Education Unit · verified 2026-09-03

Common questions

How many hours of pre-license education does California require for insurance agents?: 12 hours for Life Agent and Accident and Health or Sickness Agent, as set by the California Department of Insurance (CDI), Producer Licensing Bureau - Education Unit.
Is an exam required to get licensed in California?: Our research of the California Department of Insurance (CDI), Producer Licensing Bureau - Education Unit rule does not show a required exam alongside the education hours. Confirm with the board before you apply.
Can I complete these hours online?: Yes. Our pre-license courses are delivered entirely online and self-paced, with a certificate of completion issued as soon as you finish.

Already licensed? This page covers getting your first license. If you already hold one, California insurance agents renewal requires 24 hours of continuing education — see California insurance agents continuing education.