Health insurance laws are mandated by individual states. The state's Department of Insurance creates its own laws and regulations regarding requirements for selling health insurance. Once you are approved by the state to become a health insurance agent, the company from which you are applying must approve you. Understanding health insurance credential requirements can help you determine if you qualify.
General Requirements
Indiana's health insurance license requirements are similar to the majority of the other 49 states in the United States. To apply, you must be at least 18 years old and have a primary residence in the state in which you are applying. You must have completed at least an education program and an examination, both of which are required by most companies. You also must not have committed any act that could result in the revocation or suspension of a health insurance license. Each state will specifically name the kinds of felonies or charges that may not appear on your record.
Course Requirements
Whatever state you are applying in will have a list of approved schools whose courses count toward completing the requirements for the company. The basic course requirement for most companies is a course that can be done either online or in a classroom. The course often lasts between three and four days and costs between $150 and $500. The subjects of these courses include law, understanding contracts, understanding health insurance regulations and differences in the state's instructions. Each course ends with a test that you must pass in order to get credit for the course.
Testing
Testing occurs at testing centers designated by the state. It can take anywhere between two to four weeks to obtain the results of your test. Testing fees often are around $50, but can vary based on the state.
State License
After passing the test and meeting all the requirements specified by your state, the government will issue you a license stating that you are legally allowed to become a health insurance agent. The license is valid for anywhere between two and four years, depending on which state you are in. Throughout the valid period of your license, you must continue to obtain additional education. This will automatically renew your license. It is legal to be licensed in different states, as long as you complete all the requirements necessary.
Agent License
After being licensed by the state, you must get licensed by an insurance company. This will allow you to work for that specific company and sell that kind of insurance. Companies will have their own requirements and regulations for their potential agents. Items that can count against you in your attempts to get licensed by an agent include poor credit ratings, felonies and misdemeanors.
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